Based on a 2023 survey, only 65% of adults age 18 and older had a dental cleaning or exam in the past year. It only suggests that despite the increasing campaign on the importance of maintaining proper oral hygiene, many still don’t prioritize routine dental cleaning.

This is quite alarming given the fact that nearly 3.5 billion people around the world are affected by oral diseases, with the majority—about 75%—residing in middle-income countries.

So, if you’ve just booked a dental cleaning appointment with an Upland dentist, congratulations! You’re taking a big step toward healthier teeth.

If it’s your first time visiting a dentist in Upland California, we understand that there might be questions you might have. You might also feel a bit jittery having no idea of what’s about to happen during your dental procedure.

Don’t worry. We got you covered. Let us guide you through out the process by offering this ultimate guide.

Dental Cleaning Explained

Professional dental cleaning or routine cleaning is process where a dental hygienist removes bacteria, plaque, and tartar buildup around the surface of your teeth. 

Experts recommend scheduling a dental cleaning as early as six months after the first tooth appears or by the time a child turns one year old. Parents and patients shouldn’t worry, though, because a standard routine cleaning shouldn’t be painful. However, discomfort or pain may occur if the patient:

• Suffers from oral diseases such gum inflammation or tooth decay
• Has dental anxiety which triggers pain signals

Types of Dental Cleaning

Dental cleaning has different types, each may be recommended based on your current dental needs. 

Prophylaxis – is the most common or standard, preventive cleaning procedure for those with generally healthy teeth and gums. 

Gross debridement – is a type of cleaning that is beneficial for patients who haven’t visited a dentist in over a year or have significant plaque buildup. It may take longer to complete compared to a regular prophylaxis. The goal of debridement is to identify any underlying issues that might not have been detected before the cleaning.

Scaling and root planning – often referred to as a deep cleaning, this procedure targets the area beneath the gum line to remove bacteria and hardened tartar (calculus) around the roots of the teeth. Dentists typically perform this treatment using local anesthesia on patients with mild to moderate periodontitis (gum disease). 

Now that you learned about what dental cleaning is and its types, let’s focus on a question which we often receive from our patients.

“Am I required to have regular dental cleaning sessions?”

Is Dental Cleaning Really Necessary?

Yes, dental cleanings are essential because there are areas in your mouth where bacteria, biofilm, and tartar can accumulate, which brushing and flossing alone cannot effectively remove.

The American Dental Association encourages both children and adults to have routine cleaning at least twice a year or every six months. This is to help patients prevent cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. Severe tartar buildup or dental calculus can also result into bad breath or halitosis and tooth discoloration.

Things to Expect During Your First Dental Appointment

Your first dental cleaning typically begins with an initial checkup where the dentist or dental hygienist reviews your dental history. This process involves discussing any concerns you may have and assessing your overall oral health.

Next, X-rays may be taken to get a closer look at areas not visible during the physical exam, such as between the teeth or beneath the gums. These images help in diagnosing potential issues early, like cavities or bone loss.

Once complete, the cleaning process begins. This stage involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth using specialized tools. The hygienist will carefully clean the areas around your gum line and in between your teeth, where regular brushing and flossing might not reach.

Some practices go the extra mile to ensure patient comfort. If you have any specific concerns or anxieties, it’s essential to discuss them with your dentist. We at Upland Dental Practice, for example, can offer personalized care to make your experience as comfortable as possible.

In general, general dental cleaning takes about 30 minutes to one hour. By the end of the appointment, you’ll receive advice on how to maintain good oral hygiene at home and may schedule your next visit. With this knowledge, your first dental appointment should be smooth and stress-free.

Final Words

Taking the step to book your first dental cleaning appointment is a significant move toward ensuring long-term oral health. Given the number of patients who have had a dental check-up in the past year, you’re already ahead in prioritizing your dental care.

Understanding the importance of routine dental cleanings is essential—especially when we consider that billions worldwide suffer from oral diseases, many of which could be prevented with regular care. Whether you’re simply staying on top of your oral hygiene or addressing specific concerns, your commitment to your dental health can make a ton of difference.

Again, brushing and flossing will not be enough to protect your teeth from plaque and tartar buildup. So level up your dental care game by simply prioritizing routine cleaning. Also, keep in mind that there’s no such thing as “too young or too old” when it comes to dental care. 

Dental Cleaning in Upland California

Routine dental cleanings are more than just a part of oral hygiene—they are key to preventing serious conditions like gum disease, tooth decay, and even tooth loss. With this guide, you’ve surely equipped yourself with the right knowledge.

If you have any lingering questions or concerns about what to expect, know that our dental team at Upland Dental Practice is here to support you. Your journey to a healthier smile starts now, and want to ensure to make your first dental cleaning appointment a positive and stress-free experience.