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Cleaning and Exams

Professional teeth cleanings significantly reduce your risk of common oral health problems like cavities and gum disease. They complement your at-home brushing and flossing regimen, ensuring your smile stays healthy. At Rainier Dental in Bonney Lake, Puyallup, Sumner, and Tacoma, Washington, the skilled dental team provides professional teeth cleanings to people of all ages. Call the nearest Rainier Dental office today to schedule a teeth cleaning appointment, or book your visit online.

A radiant smile is more than just a confidence booster; it reflects your overall health. At Rainier Dental, we’re dedicated to providing top-tier cleaning and exam services that go beyond mere tooth polishing. Our skilled professionals combine years of expertise with cutting-edge technology to deliver comprehensive oral care tailored to your unique needs. We’re here to guide you toward optimal dental health, one smile at a time.

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Understanding Cleaning and Exams

Regular dental cleanings and exams are the foundation of good oral health. These routine visits serve as your first line of defense against a myriad of dental issues. During your appointment, our experienced hygienists meticulously remove plaque and tartar buildup, while our dentists conduct a thorough examination to detect any potential problems.

These visits are about more than just cleaning your teeth. They’re an opportunity for us to assess your overall oral health, screen for oral cancer, and evaluate any existing dental work. By maintaining a consistent schedule of cleanings and exams, you’re taking a proactive approach to your dental care, potentially preventing more serious and costly issues down the line.

Benefits of Cleaning and Exams

Pristine Teeth, Lasting Impressions

Professional cleanings elevate your oral hygiene to a level unattainable at home. Our advanced techniques remove stubborn stains and polish your teeth to a brilliant sheen. This thorough cleaning not only enhances your smile’s aesthetics but also boosts your self-assurance in both personal and professional settings. You’ll leave our office with a smile that turns heads and opens doors.

Preventive Care Powerhouse

Regular cleanings and exams are your best defense against common dental ailments. By eliminating plaque and tartar, we significantly reduce your risk of cavities and gum disease. Our comprehensive exams allow us to identify potential issues in their infancy, often before you notice any symptoms. This proactive approach can save you from the discomfort and expense of more extensive dental procedures in the future.

Customized Oral Health Blueprint

Each cleaning and exam session is an opportunity to create a personalized oral care strategy. We take the time to understand your habits, address your concerns, and align with your dental health goals. From recommending specialized oral care products to offering advice on diet choices that impact your teeth, we work alongside you to develop a tailored plan for maintaining a healthy mouth between visits.

Breath of Fresh Confidence

Professional cleanings do more than just brighten your smile; they significantly improve your breath freshness. By removing bacteria-harboring plaque and tartar, we help combat the root causes of bad breath. This not only enhances your social interactions but also contributes to your overall oral health, as persistent bad breath can sometimes indicate underlying dental issues.

Knowledge is Dental Power

We believe in empowering our patients with knowledge. During your visits, we provide education on the latest oral care techniques and advancements in dental health. You’ll gain insights into effective brushing and flossing methods, understand the impact of your diet on your teeth, and learn strategies to prevent common dental issues. This knowledge equips you to make informed decisions about your oral health long after you leave our office.

Our Cleaning and Exams Process

Why Choose Us for Cleaning and Exams

At Rainier Dental, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional dental care in a comfortable, patient-centered environment. Our team of experienced professionals stays up-to-date with the latest advancements in dentistry to provide you with the best possible care. We understand that every patient is unique, which is why we take the time to listen to your concerns and tailor our approach to meet your individual needs.

We’re committed to making your dental visits as pleasant and stress-free as possible. Our modern facility is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, allowing us to provide efficient, effective treatments while ensuring your comfort. Whether you’re coming in for a routine cleaning or need more extensive care, you can trust that you’re in capable, caring hands at Rainier Dental.

FAQs About Cleaning and Exams

We understand you may have questions about dental cleanings and exams. Here are answers to some common inquiries.

My mouth feels fine. Are teeth cleanings really necessary?

Yes. The Rainier Dental team recommends that everyone undergo a professional teeth cleaning at least twice a year. Common oral health problems, like cavities and gum disease, develop slowly and present few obvious symptoms. Routine checkups and cleanings at Rainier Dental alert you to potential issues and keep them from worsening.

What do professional teeth cleanings involve?

Professional teeth cleanings at Rainier Dental involve a multi-step process, including:

  • Step one: An oral exam – Your Rainier Dental provider completes an oral exam before cleaning your teeth. They look at your teeth, gums, tongue, the roof, and the floor of your mouth for potential problems like cavities, gum disease, and abnormal growths.
  • Step two: Removal of plaque and tartar – Your Rainier Dental provider uses a handheld tool called a scaler to carefully remove plaque –– a mixture of saliva, food particles, and bacteria –– from the surfaces of your teeth and beneath your gums. You might hear some scraping during this part of the teeth cleaning, but it isn’t painful.
  • Step three: Cleaning with gritty toothpaste – After removing the plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums, your provider polishes your teeth with gritty toothpaste. The toothpaste’s rough texture lets your provider eliminate stains and any remaining buildup.
  • Step four: Professional flossing – Your Rainier Dental provider flosses your teeth to remove any remaining food particles and plaque between them. Flossing also massages your gums, making them less susceptible to periodontal disease.
  • Step five: Fluoride treatment (if needed) – The Rainier Dental team might recommend fluoride treatment if you have a history of cavities. Fluoride is a naturally occurring element added to tap water. It strengthens and supports your tooth enamel, making it less likely to decay.

Is there any way to relieve anxiety during professional teeth cleaning? Let the Rainier Dental team know if you have dental anxiety or sensitive teeth. They can administer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) before treatment, ensuring a comfortable teeth-cleaning experience. Nitrous oxide wears off quickly, so you can drive home as soon as your appointment finishes.

How do I care for my teeth between cleanings?

The Rainier Dental team recommends practicing good oral hygiene between professional teeth cleanings. Brush your teeth twice daily, floss regularly, and avoid bad habits like nail biting and chewing on ice cubes.

Call the nearest Rainier Dental office today to schedule professional teeth cleaning, or book your appointment online.

How long does a dental cleaning and exam take?

Most dental cleanings and exams are completed within 30 to 60 minutes. The duration can vary based on factors such as the condition of your teeth, the time since your last visit, and whether any additional procedures are needed. We prioritize thoroughness over speed to ensure you receive comprehensive care during each visit.

Are dental exams and cleaning painful?

Dental cleanings and exams are typically painless for most patients. You might feel some pressure or mild discomfort during the cleaning process, especially if you have sensitive teeth or gums. Our team uses gentle techniques and modern equipment to minimize any potential discomfort. If you’re anxious or have concerns about pain, let us know – we offer various options to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.

How often should you get dental cleanings and exams?

The general recommendation is to have dental cleanings and exams twice a year. However, this can vary based on individual needs. Some patients, particularly those with a history of gum disease or rapid tartar buildup, may benefit from more frequent visits. During your appointment, we’ll assess your oral health and recommend a cleaning schedule tailored to your specific needs.

What should I expect after a dental exam and cleaning?

Post-cleaning, your teeth will feel noticeably smoother and cleaner. It’s normal to experience some sensitivity, especially if you had a more thorough cleaning or if it’s been a while since your last visit. This sensitivity typically subsides within a day or two. Your gums might also feel slightly tender. We’ll provide you with specific aftercare instructions based on your individual exam results.

What is a dental deep cleaning?

A dental deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a more intensive procedure recommended for patients showing signs of gum disease. It involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smoothing out the tooth roots to eliminate bacterial toxins. This treatment is typically performed over multiple visits and may require local anesthesia. Deep cleanings are crucial for combating gum disease and restoring gum health.

Elevate Your Smile Today

Your path to a healthier, more beautiful smile begins with a single step. Don’t postpone your oral health – the benefits of regular cleanings and exams extend far beyond just your mouth.

Schedule your appointment with Rainier Dental today and experience the difference that professional, personalized care can make. Let us help you achieve the confident, radiant smile you deserve.

Contact us now to book your cleaning and exam!

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Puyallup
Tacoma