Dental Cleanings and Hygiene in Stouffville
A professional dental cleaning removes plaque and hardened tartar that brushing and flossing can’t fully reach. At Park Drive Dental, our registered dental hygienists clean and polish your teeth, and one of our dentist team members examines your teeth, gums and mouth. Most patients need a cleaning every three to twelve months, depending on their gum health.
What happens during a dental cleaning?
Review: we update your health history and ask about any concerns.
Plaque and tartar removal: your hygienist removes soft plaque and hardened tartar (calculus) from above and below the gumline.
Polishing: removes surface stains and leaves teeth smoother, so plaque builds up more slowly.
Gum check: your hygienist measures the gum pockets around your teeth to check for signs of gum disease.
Examination: Dr. Elliott checks for cavities, worn or broken fillings, gum changes and signs of oral cancer.
X-rays when needed: we take digital X-rays only when they are clinically useful, not at every visit.
A typical hygiene appointment takes about 45-60 minutes.
How often should you get your teeth cleaned?
No single schedule suits everyone. The right interval depends on your gum health, how quickly tartar builds up, your cavity risk, existing dental work and your general health. Some patients need cleanings every three or four months; others do well with six months or longer. We recommend a schedule based on what we see in your mouth.
What is the difference between plaque and tartar?
Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth every day and can be removed with good brushing and flossing. Tartar is plaque that has hardened onto the tooth. Once tartar forms, only professional instruments can remove it.
Can regular cleanings help prevent gum disease?
Regular cleanings control plaque and tartar, the main causes of gum inflammation, and let us spot early changes. Your daily routine matters just as much: brush twice a day and clean between your teeth once a day.
See us before your next scheduled visit if you notice:
gums that bleed when you brush or floss
red, swollen or tender gums
gums pulling back from your teeth
persistent bad breath
teeth that feel loose
Frequently asked questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does a dental cleaning hurt? | Most people find cleanings comfortable. If your gums are sensitive or you have a lot of tartar, tell your hygienist. We can adjust our approach and discuss options to help you feel more comfortable. |
| Is a cleaning covered by insurance? | Coverage depends on your dental plan. Check your benefits for cleaning and exam coverage, visit limits, and any amount you may need to pay. |
| Do you clean children’s teeth? | Yes. We welcome children for dental cleanings and help them build healthy habits and feel comfortable with dental visits. |
| I haven’t seen a dentist in years. Is that a problem? | You’re welcome here, however long it’s been. Your first visit may take a little longer so we can assess your oral health, discuss your concerns, and plan your next steps. |