Dental Cleanings and Hygiene
in Greenbelt, MD

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Why Do Professional Dental Cleanings Matter?

Professional dental cleanings are essential preventive care visits where our skilled hygienists remove plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing can't address. These regular appointments help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues while giving us a chance to spot potential problems early. At McCarl Dental Group, we believe these routine visits are the foundation of lasting dental health for patients of all ages.

Benefits of Professional Dental Cleanings

Prevent Costly Problems Before They Start

Regular cleanings remove harmful bacteria and plaque before they can cause decay or gum disease, potentially saving you from more extensive and expensive treatments down the road.

Brighten Your Natural Smile

Our thorough yet gentle cleaning process removes surface stains from coffee, tea, wine, and tobacco, helping maintain your smile's natural brightness without harsh whitening treatments.

Protect Your Overall Health

Growing research links oral health to your overall wellness. Regular cleanings help reduce bacteria that may contribute to heart disease, diabetes complications, and other systemic health issues.

The Dental Cleaning Process

Step
1

Comprehensive Exam

Your hygienist begins by examining your mouth for any signs of concern, using specific tools to check gum health and looking for early signs of decay, oral cancer, or other issues that might need attention.

Step
2

Gentle Plaque and Tartar Removal

Using specialized instruments, your hygienist carefully removes plaque and hardened tartar (calculus) from above and below the gumline, reaching places your toothbrush and floss simply can't access.

Step
3

Polishing and Flossing

Once all plaque and tartar are removed, your teeth are gently polished to remove surface stains and leave your mouth feeling refreshed. Your hygienist will then floss between each tooth, removing any remaining debris.

Step
4

Personalized Recommendations

Before you leave, your hygienist will provide tailored home care advice based on your specific needs, which might include technique improvements, product recommendations, or suggested cleaning frequency.

Frequently asked questions

How often should I have my teeth professionally cleaned?

Most patients benefit from cleanings every six months, but some conditions like gum disease, diabetes, or a history of frequent cavities might require more frequent visits. We'll recommend a schedule that's right for your specific needs.

Will my cleaning hurt?

Many patients find cleanings to be comfortable, especially at McCarl Dental Group where our hygienists are known for their gentle touch. If you have sensitive teeth or anxiety about dental visits, let us know—we offer comfort options and can take extra steps to ensure you're relaxed throughout your visit.

What's the difference between a regular cleaning and a deep cleaning?

A regular cleaning (prophylaxis) focuses on removing plaque and tartar above the gumline and is recommended for preventive maintenance. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) addresses more advanced gum disease by cleaning beneath the gumline and smoothing tooth roots. We'll always explain which type is appropriate for your situation.