Teeth Cleaning & Dental Checkups

There are many ways you can play an active role in maintaining your oral health. Having your teeth cleaned in our office every six months is an excellent place to start. Dr. Moskowitz and his team identify plaque and problem areas before thoroughly cleaning your teeth, providing you with information to sustain a happy, healthy smile.

• How often should I get a professional dental cleaning?
  • Answer: Most dental professionals, including those in the American Dental Association, recommend a cleaning and exam every six months. Patients with higher risks, such as a history of gum disease or frequent cavities, may need visits every three to four months.
• What is included in a routine cleaning?
  • Answer: A standard cleaning (or prophylaxis) involves removing plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from above and below the gumline, followed by polishing and flossing to remove surface stains and debris.
• How long does a typical cleaning appointment take?
  • Answer: A routine cleaning usually lasts about 30 to 60 minutes. New Patients – we reserve an hour and a half.
• What is the difference between a routine cleaning and a deep cleaning?
  • Answer: A routine cleaning is a preventative measure for healthy gums. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) is a therapeutic procedure to treat gum disease by removing tartar from deep below the gumline. 

• Does a dental cleaning hurt?
  • Answer: Generally, cleanings are not painful. However, you may experience minor sensitivity from scaling or, if you rarely floss, slight bleeding that quickly subsides.
• What can I do if I have sensitive teeth?
  • Answer: Let the hygienist know. They can use a topical anesthetic to numb your gums, or you can take an over-the-counter pain reliever before your appointment.
• What should I do if my gums bleed after a cleaning?
  • Answer: Mild, temporary bleeding is normal if you haven’t had a cleaning in a while or have early-stage gum inflammation. It should stop within a day or two as you continue to brush and floss. 

• How should I prepare for my appointment?
  • Answer: Continue your normal daily brushing and flossing routine. You do not need to do anything special, though some prefer to brush right before arriving.
• What should I do after my cleaning?
  • Answer: Maintain your routine of brushing twice a day and flossing daily. If you had a deeper cleaning, your dentist might advise eating soft foods for 1–2 day

• Can I get my teeth cleaned while pregnant?
  • Answer: Yes, it is safe and often recommended due to increased risks of gum inflammation during pregnancy.
• Does insurance cover these visits?
  • Answer: Most dental insurance plans cover routine cleaning and exams as preventative care. However, if you need more than two cleanings per year, the extra visits might be out-of-pocket.
• What if I have an implant?
  • Answer: Single and Full-mouth implants require regular professional cleanings to check stability and remove plaque from hard-to-reach areas.