Dental Cleaning

B. Jeffrey Kay, DDS

General Dentist and Cosmetic Dentist located in San Mateo, CA

Dental cleanings are one of the simplest ways to protect your oral health against tooth decay and gum disease. B. Jeffrey Kay, DDS Dentistry performs gentle dental cleanings in San Mateo, California. Dr. Kay is committed to keeping your smile healthy and beautiful. To schedule a dental cleaning today, call B. Jeffrey Kay, DDS Dentistry or book an appointment online now.

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Dental Cleaning Q & A

What is a Dental Cleaning?

A Dental Cleaning is a preventive treatment that gently removes plaque and bacteria from your teeth. During these routine visits, Dr. Kay checks your teeth and gums for signs of decay or damage and examines the soft tissues in your mouth to detect abnormal sores or growths.

Dental cleanings are important to your overall health. By performing these routine exams, Dr. Kay can help keep your smile healthy and bright for years to come.

How often do I need a Dental Cleaning?

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends visiting your dentist for a routine dental cleaning at least once every six months. Without regular teeth cleanings, plaque can build in between the crevices of your teeth, raising your risk of cavities.

Over time, plaque and bacteria can even move beneath the gum line, resulting in gum disease. Gum disease is reversible in its early stages, but the infection can progress if you don’t take action and seek treatment as soon as possible.

Bi-annual dental cleanings help ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy, so you can maintain your oral health now rather than treat it later.

What is involved in a Dental Cleaning?

When you arrive for your dental cleaning, Dr. Kay may take X-rays to check for underlying signs of decay or damage.

After taking your X-rays, Dr. Kay examines the inside of your mouth to check for abnormal growths or slow-healing mouth sores.

The first step in any dental cleaning is removing plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from the surface of your teeth. Dr. Kay uses special instruments to remove debris from the crevices of your molars, which are difficult to reach on your own.

Once your teeth are completely free of plaque, Dr. Kay brushes, flosses, and polishes your teeth for a bright, healthy-looking smile.

How can I care for my teeth after a Dental Cleaning?

Brushing and flossing at least twice a day is the best way to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other common dental concerns.

To keep your teeth healthy and strong, minimize your consumption of sugary snacks and acidic beverages. When sugar becomes trapped between your teeth, it reacts with the bacteria in your mouth and releases acids that can cause tooth decay. You can reduce your risk of cavities by brushing your teeth after eating and by drinking plenty of water.

For comprehensive dental cleanings, call B. Jeffrey Kay, DDS Dentistry or schedule an appointment online today.