Professional Teeth Cleaning
Maintain optimal oral health with gentle, thorough dental cleanings from Dr. Irene Olaes. Our preventive care approach helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and keeps your smile bright.
Professional teeth cleanings, also called prophylaxis, are preventive dental treatments that remove plaque, tartar, and stains from your teeth. During your cleaning at Carmel Mountain Dentist, our skilled hygienist uses specialized tools to clean areas that regular brushing and flossing can't reach.
Dr. Irene Olaes recommends regular cleanings every six months as the foundation of good oral health. With over 25 years of experience serving the Carmel Mountain, Rancho Bernardo, and Scripps Ranch communities, Dr. Olaes understands that preventive care is the key to avoiding more complex and costly dental problems.
Our gentle approach ensures your cleaning is comfortable while being thorough. We take the time to educate you about proper oral hygiene techniques and address any concerns about your dental health during your visit.
Benefits of Regular Teeth Cleanings
Removes plaque and bacteria that cause gingivitis and periodontitis
Early removal of plaque prevents tooth decay and cavities
Removes surface stains for a whiter, more attractive smile
Reduces bacteria linked to heart disease, diabetes, and stroke
Identifies issues before they become serious and expensive
Eliminates bacteria and food particles that cause bad breath
Prevents need for expensive treatments like root canals or extractions
Professional tools remove hardened plaque that brushing can't eliminate
Maintains gum health and prevents inflammation and bleeding
Receive customized advice for your specific oral health needs
What to Expect During Your Cleaning
Initial Examination
Dr. Olaes or our hygienist will examine your mouth for signs of gum disease, cavities, or other oral health issues before beginning the cleaning process.
Plaque and Tartar Removal
Using specialized tools called scalers, we carefully remove plaque and tartar buildup from around your gum line and between your teeth.
Professional Tooth Polishing
Your teeth are polished with a gritty toothpaste and high-powered electric brush to remove surface stains and smooth the tooth surface.
Fluoride Treatment
A fluoride treatment may be applied to strengthen your teeth and provide extra protection against cavities between visits.
Oral Health Education
We'll discuss your oral hygiene routine, demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques, and answer any questions you may have.
Treatment Planning
If any issues are detected, Dr. Olaes will discuss treatment options and help you plan your next steps for optimal oral health.
Who Needs Regular Teeth Cleanings?
The American Dental Association recommends professional cleanings for all patients starting at age 2, continuing throughout life.
Those with gingivitis or periodontitis may need more frequent cleanings (every 3-4 months) to manage their condition.
Some patients naturally accumulate plaque faster and benefit from more frequent professional cleanings.
Tobacco use increases risk of gum disease and staining, making regular cleanings even more important.
Diabetes, heart disease, and autoimmune conditions can affect oral health, requiring regular professional care.
Braces, retainers, and other appliances make thorough home care challenging, requiring professional cleaning.
Patients with a history of tooth decay benefit from the preventive aspect of regular professional cleanings.
Even those with good oral hygiene benefit from professional cleaning to maintain peak oral health.
Professional teeth cleanings are one of the most cost-effective investments in your oral health. Most dental insurance plans cover 100% of preventive cleanings twice per year.
At Carmel Mountain Dentist, we accept most insurance plans and offer flexible payment options for patients without coverage. The cost of prevention is always less than the cost of treatment.
What Our Patients Say
"I've been getting my cleanings with Dr. Olaes for over 10 years. Her team is so gentle and thorough - my teeth always feel amazing afterward. They caught a small cavity early during my last cleaning, which saved me from needing a more expensive treatment later."
"I used to be terrified of dental cleanings, but Dr. Olaes and her hygienist made me feel so comfortable. They explain everything they're doing and are incredibly gentle. I actually look forward to my cleanings now!"
Frequently Asked Questions
Most patients should have professional cleanings every six months. However, patients with gum disease, heavy plaque buildup, or certain medical conditions may need cleanings every 3-4 months. Dr. Olaes will recommend the best schedule for your individual needs.
Professional teeth cleaning should not be painful. You may feel some pressure during plaque removal and slight sensitivity if you have gum inflammation. Our team uses gentle techniques and can provide numbing gel if you experience discomfort.
A routine cleaning typically takes 45-60 minutes. This includes the examination, cleaning, polishing, and fluoride treatment. If you need a more extensive deep cleaning, the appointment may take longer.
Most dental insurance plans cover 100% of preventive cleanings twice per year. We accept most major insurance plans and will verify your benefits before your appointment. We also offer payment plans for uninsured patients.
A regular cleaning (prophylaxis) removes plaque and tartar above the gum line. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) is needed when gum disease is present and involves cleaning below the gum line and smoothing tooth roots.
Yes, you can eat immediately after a regular cleaning. However, if you received a fluoride treatment, it's best to wait 30 minutes before eating or drinking to allow the fluoride to fully absorb into your teeth.
Some mild bleeding after cleaning is normal, especially if you have gum inflammation. Continue gentle brushing and flossing, and the bleeding should stop within a day or two. If bleeding persists, contact our office.
Related Services
Ready for Your Professional Cleaning?
Experience the difference that gentle, thorough professional care can make for your oral health. Schedule your cleaning with Dr. Olaes today.
Carmel Mountain Dentist
12335 World Trade Dr. Ste 1B, San Diego, CA 92128
Serving Carmel Mountain, Rancho Bernardo, Scripps Ranch & Poway