Better Oral Health with Regular Dental Cleanings at ASE Dental
Maintaining a healthy smile goes beyond brushing and flossing at home. Regular dental cleanings are a cornerstone of oral health, offering benefits that extend far beyond a sparkling smile. Professional dental cleanings remove plaque, tartar, and stains that daily brushing can’t tackle, while also providing an opportunity for early detection of dental issues. ASE Dental is a community-oriented dental practice led by an experienced dentist, Dr. Bassford, dedicated to providing comprehensive care.
Are you looking for a new general dentist near you? Contact our dental office in Silver Spring today by calling (301) 593-5500 to schedule your appointment. We also proudly welcome patients coming from Bethesda, Takoma Park, Wheaton, Baltimore, and the surrounding areas. Experience our warm and welcoming atmosphere, where your comfort and care are our top priorities.
Why Are Dental Cleanings Important? Our Dentist Near Takoma Park Explains
Plaque and Tartar Removal
Even with diligent brushing, plaque can harden into tartar, leading to tartar buildup that only professional tools can remove. Professional dental cleanings not only address tartar buildup but also remove bacteria that contribute to oral health issues such as gum disease and cavities.
Prevention of Oral Diseases
Cleanings reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues. Regular professional cleanings are essential for preventing oral diseases, as they remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains that cannot be eliminated by brushing and flossing alone. In some cases, a professional cleaning may include procedures like scaling and root planing to treat gum disease and further protect your oral health.
Aesthetic Benefits
Cleanings remove stains, leaving your teeth brighter and your smile more confident. After cleaning, your teeth are polished to enhance their smoothness and shine, using a special toothpaste that helps achieve a brighter, cleaner smile.
Dental Cleaning Benefits in Silver Spring
Prevents Cavities and Tooth Decay
Cavities form when plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—builds up on teeth and produces acids that erode enamel. Routine dental cleanings remove plaque before it causes damage, significantly reducing the risk of cavities. During a cleaning, your hygienist will also polish your teeth, smoothing surfaces to make it harder for plaque to accumulate.
Stops Gum Disease in Its Tracks
Gum disease, starting as gingivitis and potentially progressing to periodontitis, is a leading cause of tooth loss. Dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar from along and below the gumline, with special attention to cleaning along the gumline, which is crucial for preventing gum disease. Regular teeth cleanings can reverse early periodontal disease and prevent its progression, keeping your gums healthy and strong.
Enhances Your Smile’s Appearance
Stained teeth from coffee, tea, wine, or smoking can dull your smile. Dental cleanings from our top dentist near you include polishing that removes surface stains, leaving your teeth noticeably brighter. While teeth cleanings aren’t a substitute for professional teeth whitening, they provide a natural shine that boosts confidence.
Saves You Money in the Long Run
Preventive dental care is far more cost-effective than treating dental problems after they develop. For example, a routine cleaning costs significantly less than fillings, root canals, or gum disease treatments. Many dental insurance plans and Medicaid cover routine cleanings, making preventive care more affordable for patients. By catching issues early, dental cleanings help you avoid expensive procedures and maintain your oral health budget.
Promotes Overall Health
Your mouth is a gateway to your body, and poor oral health is linked to systemic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Bacteria from gum disease can enter the bloodstream, contributing to inflammation and other health issues. Regular cleanings reduce this risk, supporting both oral and overall wellness.
Freshens Your Breath
Persistent bad breath (halitosis) is often caused by bacterial buildup, gum disease, or trapped food particles. Dental cleanings eliminate these culprits, leaving your mouth fresh and clean. Your dental hygienist can also identify underlying causes of bad breath and recommend solutions.
Early Detection of Dental Issues
During a cleaning, our Silver Spring dentist examines your mouth for signs of trouble, such as cavities, cracked teeth, or abnormal growths. Early detection allows for timely treatment, preventing minor issues from becoming major problems. Some dentists also screen for oral cancer, a potentially life-saving service.
Maintain healthy teeth to avoid oral health problems! Schedule your professional teeth cleaning in Silver Spring by calling our dentist near you at (301) 593-5500.
Preparing for Your Dental Cleaning
Preparing for your dental cleaning is essential to ensure you get the most out of your visit to our dental clinic. Before your appointment, we recommend brushing and flossing your teeth as you normally would. This simple step helps remove loose plaque and food particles, making the dental cleaning process more efficient and comfortable. Additionally, arriving 10-15 minutes early gives you time to complete any necessary paperwork and settle in before your procedure begins.
Our friendly dental team in Silver Spring is always here to welcome you and guide you through each step of your visit. If you have any specific needs or concerns—such as sensitive teeth, dental anxiety, or questions about the cleaning procedure—please let us know. Our dentist will take the time to explain the dental cleaning process and address any concerns you may have, ensuring your experience is as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning
A typical dental cleaning takes 30 to 60 minutes and includes the following steps. We take a patient-centered approach, ensuring your individual needs and concerns are addressed throughout the cleaning process:
- Dental Examination: Our dentist or hygienist checks for signs of cavities, gum disease, or other issues.
- Scaling: Specialized tools remove plaque and tartar from teeth and below the gumline.
- Polishing: A gritty paste and a rotating tool polish your teeth, removing stains and smoothing surfaces.
- Flossing: Professional flossing ensures no debris remains between teeth.
- Fluoride Treatment (Optional): A fluoride rinse or gel strengthens enamel and prevents cavities.
- Education: Our dental team provides tips for maintaining good oral health, and at-home care, and answers your questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dental cleanings whiten my teeth?
Cleanings remove surface stains, making teeth appear brighter, but they aren’t a substitute for professional whitening. Ask your dentist about whitening options if you want a dramatically brighter smile.
What’s the most important part of dental cleaning?
One of the most important aspects of regular dental cleaning is the removal of plaque and tartar. During your professional dental cleaning, your dentist removes built-up plaque and tartar, avoiding the possibility of tooth decay or gum disease from developing.
Why do I feel better after I get my teeth cleaned?
You most likely feel better after a dental cleaning as it eases stress on the immune system by eliminating potential threats. Your dentist effectively gets rid of plaque buildup and other residues that lurk between the teeth, eliminating bad bacteria from your body.
Visit Our Dental Office in Silver Spring for Improved Oral Health
Regular dental cleanings are more than a routine chore—they’re an investment in your oral health, overall wellness, and confidence. Are you ready to get started? Contact our general dentist in Silver Spring by calling (301) 593-5500. We also proudly welcome patients coming from Bethesda, Takoma Park, Wheaton, and the surrounding areas.