Has it been a while since your last dental visit? Need to schedule a routine cleaning for your family? Visit Coastal General Dentistry in Virginia Beach, VA, for professional cleanings.
Regular dental cleanings help prevent tooth and gum infections. Led by Dr. Cappy Sinclair and Dr. Mark Reichley, our skilled team uses special tools to clean your teeth and gums. These tools remove plaque and tartar that you can’t remove with regular brushing.
We also check for signs of tooth decay and gum disease. Tooth infections can cause pain, sensitivity, and color changes. Early signs of gum disease include red, swollen, or sore gums. If we catch these problems early, we can treat them before they get worse. Keep reading to learn more about the types of cleanings we offer and why they’re important.
What to Expect During Your Dental Cleaning Appointment
Here’s a step-by-step look at what you can expect when you visit Dr. Sinclair, Dr. Reichley, and our hygienists.
Step 1: Medical History Review
Before your cleaning begins, your hygienist will review your medical history with you. This helps us stay aware of any changes to your health, medications, or conditions that could affect your dental care. Conditions like pregnancy, diabetes, or heart issues can influence how we approach your cleaning. If nothing has changed, this only takes a minute.
Step 2: Oral Examination
Your hygienist starts by using a small mirror to examine your entire mouth. They check for:
- Signs of tooth decay or cavities
- Red, swollen, or bleeding gums (early signs of gum disease)
- Loose teeth or changes in your bite
- Any areas of concern you may have mentioned
This exam helps your hygienist know exactly where to focus during your cleaning.
Step 3: Scaling – Removing Plaque and Tartar
Using a small metal scaler or an ultrasonic tool, your hygienist carefully removes plaque and tartar from your teeth. Plaque hardens into tartar if not removed. Once tartar forms, you can’t brush or floss it away. Only a professional cleaning can remove it.
Your hygienist will scale:
- Above the gum line on each tooth surface
- Just below the gum line, where bacteria hide
- Between teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach
You may hear scraping sounds during this step. That’s normal. The sensation is usually mild pressure rather than pain, especially if you come in for regular cleanings every six months.
Step 4: Polishing
After scaling, your hygienist uses a high-powered brush with a gritty toothpaste-like paste to polish your teeth. This step:
- Removes surface stains from coffee, tea, or wine
- Smooths out tiny imperfections on your enamel
- Makes it harder for new plaque to stick to your teeth
The paste has a mildly gritty texture but tastes similar to regular toothpaste. Many patients find this step leaves their teeth feeling incredibly smooth and clean.
Step 5: Professional Flossing
Your hygienist flosses between every tooth to ensure the spaces between your teeth are completely clean. Your hygienist will also note if your gums bleed during flossing; an early indicator of gingivitis.
This step also gives your hygienist a chance to show you technique tips for more effective flossing at home.
Step 6: Fluoride Treatment (Optional)
After your cleaning, your hygienist may apply a fluoride gel, foam, or varnish to your teeth. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities. The application takes less than a minute.
You may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes after fluoride treatment to let it fully absorb. Your hygienist will give you clear instructions if fluoride is right for you.
Step 7: Dentist’s Exam
Once your cleaning is complete, Dr. Sinclair or Dr. Reichley will come in to perform a final exam. They will:
- Review any findings from your hygienist
- Check for cavities using an explorer tool
- Examine your gums for signs of periodontal disease
- Discuss any recommended treatments or next steps
If you need additional care, your dentist will explain your options before you leave.
Step 8: Scheduling Your Next Visit
Before you head to the front desk, you’ll schedule your next routine cleaning. Most patients benefit from cleanings every six months. Some patients with gum disease or other conditions may be advised to come more frequently.
Our front desk team will also check your insurance coverage and provide an estimate for any recommended follow-up treatments.
Types of Dental Cleanings
We offer various types of dental cleanings to suit your needs. These include regular cleanings, scaling and root planing, and gum maintenance.
- Prophylaxis: This is a regular cleaning that helps prevent gum disease. During this process, we remove tartar from your teeth and gums. This also helps freshen your breath and brighten your smile.
- Scaling and Root Planing: If you have gum disease, we offer this treatment. Scaling removes plaque and tartar below the gum line. Root planing smooths out tooth roots to prevent gum pockets and tooth loss.
- Periodontal Maintenance: For patients with gum disease, we recommend more frequent cleanings called gum maintenance. This keeps your gums in the best shape possible.
Patient Review
Dental Cleaning FAQs
Learn more about teeth cleanings in our Virginia Beach office with answers to these patient questions:
How long does a cleaning appointment take?
Plan for about 45 to 60 minutes. We believe in being thorough, not rushed. Our hygienists take the time to carefully clean every surface of your teeth, check your gums, and make sure your whole mouth is healthy. If you haven’t been in a while, your visit might be a little longer to make sure we get everything.
Do teeth cleanings hurt?
Most people find them comfortable, especially if they come in every six months. You might feel some light scraping or pressure, but it shouldn’t be painful. If your gums are sensitive, just let your hygienist know, and we can go a little more gently or use a numbing gel to help you feel at ease. A little discomfort is much better than the pain of a cavity or a toothache!
Can I eat or drink before my cleaning?
Absolutely. Please eat normally! In fact, it’s a good idea to have a light meal beforehand. Just give your teeth a good brushing and flossing after you eat and before you come in. Your morning coffee is fine, too. A quick rinse with water after your cup can help us see your teeth more clearly during the exam.
Can a professional cleaning help with bad breath?
Yes, it makes a huge difference. A lot of bad breath comes from bacteria hiding in tartar buildup below the gumline and on the tongue. These are places your toothbrush can’t reach. Our hygienists in Virginia Beach clean these areas thoroughly. They can also give you personalized tips for keeping your breath fresh at home.
Why do my gums sometimes bleed during a cleaning?
Bleeding gums are usually a sign of gingivitis, an early stage of gum inflammation caused by plaque and tartar buildup. The procedure itself removes this irritating tartar, which is the first step to getting your gums healthy again. With regular cleanings and good home care, you’ll see the bleeding stop as your gums become pink, firm, and healthy.
What’s the difference between a regular cleaning and a “deep cleaning”?
Regular cleaning is for healthy gums. It focuses on the visible part of your teeth and the area just below the gum line. A “deep cleaning” (or scaling and root planing) is needed if gum disease has started. It involves carefully cleaning the tooth roots below the gumline to help your gums heal. We check your gum health at every visit to recommend the right type for you.
Are dental cleanings safe during pregnancy?
Yes, they’re safe and very important. Pregnancy hormones can make gums more sensitive and swollen. Keeping your gums healthy is good for you and your baby. Just be sure to tell us you’re expecting when you book your appointment. Our hygienists are trained to provide gentle, comfortable care for our expectant patients.
How much does a cleaning cost with and without insurance?
Most dental insurance plans cover two routine cleanings per year at 100%. For patients without insurance, we offer affordable self-pay options. Call our office for specific pricing or ask about our new patient special.
Schedule Your Professional Cleaning Today
Ready to schedule a visit to our Virginia Beach dental office near First Colonial Road? Call us at 757-216-9914 or schedule an appointment online.
We’re conveniently located at 919 First Colonial Rd. Suite B, just minutes from the Virginia Beach Oceanfront, Hilltop, and surrounding neighborhoods. Whether you live near Red Mill, Pembroke, or Town Center, we’re an easy drive for your family’s dental care.
We’ll help you set up the right cleaning schedule based on your needs, and also offer other dental services if necessary. We look forward to seeing you at your next visit.