A professional dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing can't eliminate. Dr. Hickson's hygienist carefully cleans above and below the gumline, polishes your teeth to remove surface stains, and flosses between each tooth. The cleaning is followed by an examination to check for cavities, gum disease, and other oral health concerns.

Most patients benefit from professional cleanings every six months. However, we may recommend more frequent cleanings if you have gum disease, a history of cavities, heavy tartar buildup, or other oral health concerns. We'll create a personalized cleaning schedule based on your individual needs.

Your hygienist will examine your mouth, remove plaque and tartar with specialized instruments, polish your teeth to remove stains and smooth the surfaces, floss between all teeth, and may apply fluoride treatment. Dr. Hickson will then perform a comprehensive exam, checking for cavities, gum disease, and other issues. We'll discuss any findings and recommend treatment if needed.

Most patients find cleanings comfortable and painless. You may feel some pressure during tartar removal and slight sensitivity if you have gum inflammation. If you have sensitive teeth or gums, let us know - we can take extra care and use desensitizing agents to ensure your comfort throughout the appointment.

A regular cleaning maintains healthy teeth and gums by removing plaque and tartar from above the gumline. Dr. Hickson may recommend a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) if you have gum disease. This more intensive procedure removes tartar and bacteria from below the gumline and smooths root surfaces to help gums reattach to teeth.

While daily brushing and flossing are essential, they can't remove hardened tartar (calculus) that forms on teeth. Only professional instruments can safely remove this buildup. Regular cleanings also allow us to catch problems early, apply preventive treatments, and reach areas you might miss during home care. Professional cleanings complement your daily routine for optimal oral health.

Dental cleanings remove surface stains from coffee, tea, wine, and tobacco, which can make teeth appear brighter. However, cleanings restore your teeth to their natural color rather than whitening them beyond that. Dr. Hickson can discuss professional whitening options if you're looking for a brighter, whiter smile.

A routine cleaning typically takes 30-60 minutes, depending on the amount of buildup and your individual needs. This includes the cleaning, polishing, flossing, and examination. We schedule adequate time to be thorough without rushing, ensuring you receive the best possible care.

Most dental insurance plans cover preventive cleanings at 100%, typically two per year. This is because insurance companies recognize that regular cleanings prevent more costly problems. Our team will verify your benefits and help you understand your coverage before your appointment.

You can resume normal activities immediately after your cleaning. If fluoride was applied, we may recommend waiting 30 minutes before eating or drinking. Continue your regular brushing and flossing routine, and follow any specific recommendations Dr. Hickson provides based on your oral health needs.

Absolutely! Children should start receiving professional cleanings once their teeth begin to erupt, typically by age one. Regular cleanings help establish good oral hygiene habits, prevent cavities, and allow Dr. Hickson to monitor dental development. We make cleanings fun and comfortable for our young patients.

It's never too late to restart regular dental care. If it's been a while, you may have more tartar buildup that requires extra time to remove. Dr. Hickson and our hygienists are experienced in working with patients who haven't had cleanings in years. We'll be gentle, thorough, and create a plan to get your oral health back on track without judgment.