What to Expect from a Dental Cleaning
Nervous about your upcoming dental cleaning in Topsham ME and Biddeford ME? You’re not alone. At Gentle Dental, we get that sitting in a dental chair isn’t at the top of everyone’s to-do list. But here’s the thing: cleanings are one of the simplest and most important ways to keep your smile healthy—and we’re here to make the process as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Teeth cleaning with Gentle Dental ensures that your oral health is in great shape and your smile is looking amazing! Our family dentists provide professional teeth cleanings for both children and adults! Whether it’s your first cleaning in years or just a routine visit, you’ll leave feeling refreshed, confident, and one step closer to your healthiest smile.
Why Are Dental Cleanings Important?
You might think of cleanings as cosmetic—something that just makes your teeth look good. But there’s much more to it than that. Professional dental cleanings help prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and other serious oral health issues before they start. They also give us a chance to spot concerns early, when they’re easier (and less expensive) to treat. Plus, research shows that a healthy mouth is closely linked to overall wellness. From heart health to diabetes prevention, keeping your teeth and gums in good shape can have benefits far beyond your smile.
The best way to keep your oral health at its best is to schedule teeth cleanings every three to six months. Our dental professionals use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums. This is extremely important because our cleanings remove harmful bacteria that can cause future issues. Even those who are most diligent about their at-home dental hygiene should still schedule a cleaning at least every six months, because our dentists can reach those tough-to-reach spots that you can’t.
What Happens During a Professional Dental Cleaning?
Professional teeth cleanings with Gentle Dental typically take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the condition of your oral hygiene upon arrival. Either way, Gentle Dental will make sure you walk out of our office with a fresh, clean smile. Not sure what to expect? Here’s a step-by-step guide to how we perform a standard dental cleaning:
- Oral Health Check
Every visit begins with a quick but thorough evaluation. Using a small mirror, your hygienist will examine your gums, teeth, and the inside of your mouth to identify any signs of inflammation, decay, or other concerns. A dental hygienist will have a conversation with you about your at home oral care including teeth brushing and flossing habits. If anything looks out of the ordinary, your dentist may step in for a closer look before the cleaning begins. - Dental X-Rays
Our professional dental staff will take x-rays of your mouth, giving the dentist a full picture of your pearly whites. - Plaque and Tartar Removal
Even with solid brushing habits, plaque can harden into tartar, and once it does, only a dental professional can remove it. Our dentist will do a full cleaning of your teeth, where they will remove any plaque and tartar build-up, bacteria that can cause gum disease if not removed properly. We use a scaler to gently remove tartar buildup, especially along the gumline and between teeth. You may hear some scraping, but it’s totally normal and pain-free. - Tooth Polishing
Next, your dentist will polish each of your teeth using a polishing brush. This will make your teeth smooth and glossy, while also freshening your breath and helping to prevent tooth decay. The texture helps remove surface stains and leaves your teeth feeling smooth and clean. It’s like a mini exfoliation—just for your enamel. - Flossing
After polishing, your hygienist will floss between your teeth to remove any remaining debris and check the health of your gums. Our dental specialists will make sure your teeth are completely clean – even in the tight spots between them – using floss. Even if you floss at home (and we hope you do), this professional touch gets into areas that might otherwise be missed. Flossing should also be done daily at home to make sure any food stuck between your teeth is removed! - Fluoride
Fluoride, a mineral that helps make your teeth stronger and fights off cavities, will be applied to your teeth by a dentist as a varnish or gel. This protective layer strengthens enamel and helps fight off cavities in the months ahead. It’s quick, painless, and available in a variety of flavors. Make sure not to eat or drink anything for at least 30 minutes after leaving the dentist so the fluoride can work to its best ability. - Specialized Care
Each dental patient is different, so our dentists will make sure that you receive any specialized treatment that your mouth, teeth, and gums need!
Additional Preventive Services Offered During Cleanings
Based on your age, risk factors, or what we see during your exam, we may recommend:
- Dental Sealants – Great for kids and teens, sealants are applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to prevent decay.
- Digital X-Rays – Taken once a year, these images help us detect hidden issues like cavities between teeth or below the gumline.
Every cleaning is customized to your needs, so you get exactly the care your smile requires.
How Often Should You Schedule a Cleaning?
For most patients, every six months is ideal. However, if you’re managing gum disease, have a history of frequent cavities, or other health concerns, we might recommend more frequent visits.
We’ll create a personalized hygiene schedule to support your oral and overall health long term.
The Real Benefits of Regular Cleanings
Dental cleanings do more than just make your teeth shine. Here’s what they actually do for your health:
- Prevent gum disease by removing bacteria before it causes infection
- Stop cavities early by catching plaque buildup before it turns into decay
- Detect dental issues when they’re still easy to fix
- Freshen your breath by reducing odor-causing bacteria
- Support systemic health by lowering your risk of conditions like heart disease and diabetes
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
No special prep is needed—but brushing and flossing beforehand can help us get a clearer picture of your oral hygiene habits. Also, let us know if you’re experiencing any discomfort, have concerns about sensitivity, or need accommodations to feel more at ease. We’re here to help, not to judge.
Book Your Next Dental Cleaning at Gentle Dental
At Gentle Dental, our goal is to make your dental visits something you feel good about, not something you dread. Whether it’s been six months or six years since your last cleaning, we’re ready to help you get back on track.
Call us today to schedule your next dental cleaning in Topsham ME or Biddeford ME. A healthier, brighter smile is just one appointment away.
