Giatras Family Dentistry

Dental Cleanings

Maintaining a clean and healthy smile is not just about looking great; it’s also crucial for your overall health. At Giatras Family Dentistry, we are committed to giving residents access to top-notch dental care, starting with routine dental cleanings in Murfreesboro. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the area, our team ensures your smile stays bright and healthy.

What Are Dental Cleanings?

Dental cleanings, or professional teeth cleaning, are essential preventive treatments dental hygienists or dentists perform to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from your teeth. While regular brushing and flossing at home are critical, they can’t always reach every nook and cranny of your mouth. Over time, this can lead to a buildup of plaque and tartar, which contribute to tooth decay and gum disease.

Professional cleanings target these hard-to-reach areas and leave teeth feeling fresh and polished. At Giatras Family Dentistry, we use advanced tools and techniques to make your cleaning experience as effective and comfortable as possible.

Why Are Dental Cleanings Important?

Dental cleanings in Murfreesboro are about more than maintaining a beautiful smile. They play a vital role in your oral health and overall well-being. Here’s why they matter:

Prevention of Decay and Gum Disease: Regular cleanings remove harmful plaque and tartar, contributing to tooth decay and gum inflammation. Without intervention, these issues can escalate into cavities or periodontal disease, which may require more extensive (and costly) treatments.
Early Detection of Issues: Our dental team can identify early signs of problems like cavities, gum disease, or other oral health concerns during a cleaning. Catching these issues early often means simpler and more affordable treatments.
Improved Overall Health: Oral health is closely connected to overall health. Periodontal disease, for example, has been linked to conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. By getting regular dental cleanings, you’re also taking a step toward protecting your general health.
Bright and Polished Smile: Cleanings help remove surface stains caused by coffee, tea, or other foods, leaving your teeth whiter and brighter.

How Often Should I Schedule a Cleaning?

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends visiting your dentist for a cleaning every six months. However, some patients, especially those with gum disease or other oral health issues, might require more frequent cleanings. At Giatras Family Dentistry, we’ll customize a care plan based on your needs.

What Happens During a Dental Cleaning?

Knowing what to expect can make the process more comfortable if you’ve never had a professional cleaning or want a refresher. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what typically happens during a dental cleaning:

1. Examination

The process begins with a thorough examination of your teeth and gums. Your dental hygienist will use a small mirror to check for signs of cavities, gum inflammation, or other concerns. If anything requires additional attention, Dr. Jared Giatras will step in for closer inspection.

2. Plaque and Tartar Removal

Your hygienist will carefully remove plaque and tartar buildup around the gum line and between your teeth using special tools called scalers. Tartar can only be removed with professional tools, making this step essential.

3. Deep Cleaning

Next, a high-powered electric toothbrush and gritty toothpaste deep-clean your teeth. This process helps remove any remaining plaque and polishes your teeth, leaving them smooth and clean.

4. Flossing

Even if you floss regularly at home, professional flossing reaches areas you might miss. Your hygienist will expertly clean your teeth to remove hidden debris.

5. Rinsing

A quick rinse will wash away any residual debris and leave your mouth feeling fresh.

6. Fluoride Treatment (Optional)

We may recommend fluoride treatment to strengthen your enamel and protect against cavities. This involves applying a gel or varnish to your teeth, which sets in just a few minutes.

The process is simple, pain-free, and incredibly effective at maintaining oral health.

At-Home Care Between Cleanings

While professional dental cleanings are vital, maintaining oral health at home is equally important. Here are some tips to keep your smile in top shape between visits:

Brush Twice Daily: Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth for at least two minutes each time.
Floss Daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles between your teeth, which your toothbrush can’t reach.
Use Mouthwash: Rinsing with an antimicrobial or fluoride mouthwash can help reduce plaque and strengthen enamel.
Stick to a Tooth-Friendly Diet: Limit sugary snacks and drinks, and eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and calcium-rich foods to support healthy teeth and gums.
Stay Hydrated: Water helps wash away food particles and bacteria while keeping your mouth hydrated.
Don’t Skip Appointments: Keep up with your regular dental cleanings and checkups to catch potential problems early. Giatras Family Dentistry offers other services, like restorative and cosmetic dental treatments, for those who want to go above preventative care.