The rushed cleaning most people know
Have you had a cleaning that felt rushed? It flies by. Someone says "see you in six months." You leave with questions you never asked. Cleveland Clinic says most cleanings take 30 to 60 minutes. Many offices aim for the short end.
We do it differently. Here, a routine cleaning is one full hour with a hygienist. That is the time it takes to clean well and check your gums with care. It also lets us talk with you like a person, not a number.
What we do with the extra time
A full hour lets the hygienist slow down at every step. A routine visit usually includes:
- Time to talk about your health, your medicines and what bothers you
- Careful removal of plaque and tartar, tooth by tooth, at and just under the gumline
- A close look at your gums to spot early changes
- Polishing to leave your teeth smooth and clean
- Digital X-rays when your dentist decides you need them
- An exam with your dentist, who explains what they see
- Time for your questions, plus simple tips for brushing and flossing
Why tartar needs a professional
Plaque is a sticky film of germs that forms on your teeth every day. Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste removes much of it. So does cleaning between your teeth. Plaque you miss can harden into tartar. A toothbrush cannot remove tartar. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research says only a dentist or hygienist can.
Tartar hides in hard-to-reach spots. It hides behind the lower front teeth and around the back teeth. It also hides where the gum meets the tooth. These spots get rushed in a short visit. With a full hour, they get the care they need.
Your gums tell a story
Gum disease is more common than most people think. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) looked at U.S. adults. About 4 in 10 adults age 30 and older had some level of periodontitis. That is the more serious form of gum disease. For adults 65 and older, it was about 6 in 10. The CDC says gum disease can get serious before you notice anything.
Early gum swelling can often get better with cleanings and good care at home. Advanced gum disease cannot be reversed. But treatment can slow it and keep it under control. That is why catching changes early matters. Tell us if you notice:
- Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
- Red, swollen or sore gums
- Gums that pull back and make teeth look longer
- Bad breath that does not go away
- Loose or sensitive teeth, or a partial denture that fits differently
The hygienists behind the hour
Kenny Brocard, RDH, has over 18 years of experience as a dental hygienist and dentist. Patients know her for her gentle touch and her great skill with hand tools. Cristina Dominguez, RDH, has 33 years of experience as a dental hygienist. She is caring and loves her work.
We have worked in the Kendall Mall since 1973. We treat every patient with kindness, care and respect. If your gums are sensitive or you feel nervous, tell us at the start. We will explain each step and go at your pace.
How often should you come?
Cleveland Clinic says most dentists suggest a cleaning every six months. Some people need to come more often. This includes people with gum disease or a history of cavities. Your dentist and hygienist will tell you what fits you.
Has it been a while? That is OK. We start where you are, with a good cleaning and a clear plan. Call 305-271-1421, Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM, to book your hour.
Free X-ray, exam and consultation. New Patient Special. New patients only.
The patient and any other person responsible for payment has the right to refuse to pay, cancel payment or be reimbursed for payment for any other service, examination or treatment that is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to any advertisement for the free, discounted fee or reduced fee service, examination or treatment. D0191, C6182
Common questions
Why is your cleaning one hour when other offices take less?
We want your visit to be thorough, not rushed. The hour gives us time to clean well, check your gums and answer questions.
Does a dental cleaning hurt?
It should not hurt, but you may feel some scraping and pressure. If your teeth or gums are sensitive, tell us. We will go at your pace.
My gums bleed when I floss. Should I worry?
Bleeding gums are often a sign of gum swelling. Get it checked so it does not get worse. Book a cleaning and exam, and tell the hygienist what you noticed.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Your dentist will confirm what is right for you at your exam. General information checked against: cdc.gov, nidcr.nih.gov, my.clevelandclinic.org.