Valerie Cooper, DDS

Dental Cleaning

Teeth Cleaning is the removal of dental plaque and tartar from teeth in order to prevent cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Registered Dental Hygenists usually perform detnal cleanings, which will include:

Tartar Removal (Calculus) - Tartar is a hardened yellowish deposit from long term plaque that has hardened on teeth over time. The tartar cannot be brushed off. Tartar can accumulate above and below the gumline, which can only be removed with dental instruments.

Plaque Removal - Plaque is the soft, sticky and colorless firm that accumulates on the teeth from food, bacteria, and debris. Plaque must be removed to prevent cavities and gum disease.

Polishing of Teeth - The removal of stain, plaque, and soft deposits from the teeth that is not removed during tooth brushing and scaling. The polisihing of the teeth also leaves surfaces of the teeth clean and smooth so that bacteria is unable to accumulate on them.