Preference Dental

Dental Cleanings

Maintaining a healthy smile is more than brushing and flossing—it requires professional care and regular check-ups. At Preference Dental in Mecosta, our dedicated team, led by Dr. Douglas Killian and Dr. Toni Schafer, is committed to ensuring your oral health stays in excellent condition. From routine dental exams in Mecosta to personalized care plans, we support your smile.

What Are Dental Cleanings?

Dental cleanings, also known as prophylaxis, are professional procedures performed by a dentist or dental hygienist to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from teeth. While brushing and flossing at home are essential for daily oral hygiene, professional cleanings provide a deeper level of care that helps maintain overall dental health.

Whether you’re coming in for routine maintenance or addressing specific concerns, dental cleanings in Big Rapids are a fundamental component of maintaining a healthy smile.

Why Are Dental Cleanings Important?

Regular dental cleanings offer numerous benefits for your oral and overall health. Here’s why they’re essential:

1. Prevent Cavities

Plaque—a sticky film of bacteria—is one of the primary culprits for cavities. If left unchecked, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed professionally. Routine cleanings ensure plaque and tartar are effectively removed, reducing the risk of tooth decay.

2. Protect Your Gums

Dental cleanings help prevent gum disease by removing plaque and bacteria that build up along the gumline. Without intervention, plaque can cause gingivitis (early-stage gum disease) and, eventually, periodontitis, which can lead to tooth loss.

3. Detect Potential Issues Early

During your cleaning, our team will evaluate your oral health and check for warning signs of potential problems, such as cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer. Early detection allows for easier, less invasive treatments.

4. Enhance Your Smile

Professional cleanings remove surface stains caused by coffee, tea, wine, and other factors, giving you a noticeably brighter smile. If your stains are still noticeable, we offer cosmetic services like teeth whitening for patients looking for a brighter smile.

5. Improve Overall Health

The health of your mouth significantly impacts your overall well-being. Regular cleanings reduce oral bacteria, which can contribute to conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections.

By prioritizing dental cleanings in Big Rapids, you’re making a proactive choice to protect your health, smile, and confidence.

How to Care for Your Smile Between Visits

While professional cleanings are crucial, maintaining good oral hygiene at home is equally important. Here are a few tips to keep your smile radiant and healthy between appointments:

Brush Twice a Day: Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean your teeth for at least two minutes each time.
Floss Daily: Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth, where your toothbrush can’t reach.
Rinse with Mouthwash: An antibacterial mouthwash helps reduce plaque and freshens your breath.
Eat a Balanced Diet: Limit sugary snacks and beverages, and opt for foods rich in calcium, like dairy products, leafy greens, and almonds.
Stay Hydrated: Drinking water throughout the day helps wash away food particles and bacteria.

What You Can Expect During a Dental Cleaning

It’s natural to feel a little nervous if you haven’t had a cleaning in a while. At Preference Dental, we ensure that your experience is comfortable and stress-free. Here’s an overview of what happens during a typical cleaning appointment:

Step 1: Examination

Before the cleaning begins, our dental hygienist will examine your teeth and gums using a small mirror. They’ll look for signs of plaque buildup, gum inflammation, or other potential concerns.

Step 2: Plaque and Tartar Removal

Using a scaler, we carefully remove tartar and plaque that has built up on your teeth, particularly around the gumline. This process can take some time, depending on the level of buildup.

Step 3: Polishing

After removing tartar, we will polish your teeth using a high-powered toothbrush and gritty toothpaste. This step helps eliminate surface stains and leaves your teeth feeling smooth and shiny.

Step 4: Flossing

Even if you floss regularly at home, a professional flossing session offers a deeper clean and removes any debris left behind from the cleaning process.

Step 5: Fluoride Treatment (Optional)

To provide extra protection against cavities, we may recommend a fluoride treatment. This quick and painless procedure strengthens your enamel and helps prevent tooth decay.

Aftercare Tips

After your cleaning, your teeth may feel more sensitive than usual. This sensation is temporary and should resolve within a day or two. To maintain your fresh, clean smile, remember to follow the at-home care tips mentioned earlier.