Professional Teeth Cleaning Miami | Dental Hygiene

Professional Teeth Cleaning

Professional teeth cleaning (dental prophylaxis) is a thorough cleaning of the teeth performed by a dental hygienist or dentist. This preventive procedure goes beyond what regular brushing and flossing can accomplish at home, reaching areas that are difficult to clean and removing hardened plaque (tartar) that cannot be removed with a toothbrush.

At Smile Design Miami, our professional cleanings include:

Removal of plaque and tartar (scaling)
Teeth polishing to remove surface stains
Flossing between teeth to remove interdental plaque
Comprehensive oral examination
Personalized oral hygiene recommendations

Why Regular Cleanings Matter

Prevents Gum Disease

Regular cleanings help prevent gingivitis and periodontitis by removing plaque and bacteria that can cause inflammation and infection of the gums.

Detects Issues Early

During cleaning appointments, we can detect early signs of dental problems like cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer when they're easier and less expensive to treat.

Brighter Smile

Professional cleaning removes many surface stains, leaving your teeth looking brighter and your smile more radiant.

Prevents Bad Breath

Removing plaque and bacteria that cause bad breath helps keep your breath fresh and your confidence high.

Saves Money

Regular preventive care helps avoid costly dental procedures needed to treat advanced problems like severe decay or gum disease.

Supports Overall Health

Good oral health is linked to better overall health, possibly reducing risks of heart disease, diabetes complications, and other systemic conditions.

Our Professional Cleaning Process

1

Examination

Our dental hygienist will examine your oral cavity, checking for signs of gum disease, cavities, and other concerns before proceeding with cleaning.

2

Plaque & Tartar Removal

Using specialized instruments, we'll gently remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth, including below the gumline where your toothbrush can't reach.

3

Professional Polishing

We'll use a special polishing tool with a gentle abrasive paste to remove surface stains and smooth the tooth surface, making it more difficult for plaque to accumulate.

4

Personalized Guidance

We'll provide personalized oral hygiene instructions and product recommendations based on your specific needs to help you maintain optimal oral health between visits.

Types of Dental Cleanings We Offer

Routine Prophylaxis (Regular Cleaning)

Standard cleaning recommended every six months for patients with good oral health. Includes removal of plaque and tartar, polishing, and flossing.

Ideal for: Patients with healthy gums and minimal plaque buildup who maintain good oral hygiene between visits.

Frequency: Typically every 6 months, though some patients may benefit from more frequent cleanings.

Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing)

A more intensive cleaning that reaches below the gumline to remove plaque and tartar from the tooth root surfaces. Often done in quadrants over multiple appointments.

Ideal for: Patients with signs of gum disease, including deep pockets between teeth and gums, inflammation, or bone loss.

Frequency: As needed based on the condition of your gums, followed by a periodontal maintenance program.

Periodontal Maintenance

Ongoing care for patients who have undergone treatment for gum disease. More thorough than a standard cleaning but less intensive than deep cleaning.

Ideal for: Patients with a history of periodontal disease who need more frequent care to maintain gum health and prevent recurrence.

Frequency: Typically every 3-4 months, depending on your specific needs.

Debridement

Preliminary cleaning for patients with heavy plaque and tartar buildup that prevents a thorough examination. Removes thick deposits to allow for proper assessment.

Ideal for: Patients who haven't had a cleaning in years or have significant accumulation that must be addressed before regular cleaning.

Frequency: Usually a one-time procedure followed by a comprehensive exam and appropriate additional cleaning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I get my teeth professionally cleaned?

Most dentists recommend a professional cleaning every six months for patients with good oral health. However, patients with gum disease or other dental concerns may need more frequent cleanings, sometimes every 3-4 months.

Does teeth cleaning hurt?

Professional teeth cleaning is generally not painful. You may experience some sensitivity or discomfort if you have gum inflammation, exposed roots, or extensive tartar buildup. Our team is gentle and attentive to your comfort, and we can use topical numbing gel if needed.

How long does a dental cleaning take?

A routine dental cleaning typically takes 30-60 minutes, depending on the amount of plaque and tartar buildup. Deep cleanings or scaling and root planing may require multiple visits, with each visit lasting 1-2 hours for treatment of specific quadrants of the mouth.

Do dental cleanings remove stains?

Yes, professional cleaning can remove many surface stains caused by foods, beverages, and tobacco. However, for deeper stains or discoloration, you may need professional teeth whitening for optimal results.

Schedule Your Professional Cleaning

Invest in your oral health with a professional cleaning from our experienced team at Smile Design Miami.

Book Your Appointment