Dental Cleanings

Why Are Dental Cleanings Important?

Dental cleanings in Cypress are not just about keeping teeth looking great—they are vital for preventing common dental problems such as gum disease, cavities, and bad breath. Over time, plaque and tartar accumulate on teeth, leading to serious oral health issues.

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. If it is not removed regularly, it can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional. Regular cleanings help remove plaque and tartar, reducing your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Additionally, dental cleanings allow our team to detect potential issues early. Problems like cavities, gum disease, and even oral cancer are more accessible to treat when caught in the early stages. By maintaining regular dental visits, you can avoid more extensive treatments down the road and preserve your natural smile.

Who Should Get Dental Cleanings?

Dental cleanings are essential for everyone, regardless of age. At Handley Dental, we recommend that children, adults, and seniors get regular dental cleanings every six months. We may recommend more frequent cleanings for some patients, especially those with certain medical conditions or a history of gum disease.

Dental cleanings are crucial for children, as they establish good oral hygiene habits from a young age. Regular cleanings are also essential for preventing tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues in adults. For seniors, maintaining regular cleanings helps keep teeth and gums healthy and can reduce the risk of tooth loss.

The Step-by-Step Process of Dental Cleanings

When you visit Handley Dental for a cleaning, we ensure the process is quick, comfortable, and thorough. Here’s what you can expect during your dental cleaning appointment:

1. Initial Examination: Before starting the cleaning, one of our hygienists will review your dental and medical history and briefly examine your mouth. This allows us to check for visible signs of decay, gum disease, or other concerns.
2. Plaque and Tartar Removal: The hygienist will use special tools to carefully remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth, especially along the gumline. This process is essential for preventing the buildup of harmful bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
3. Polishing: After plaque and tartar removal, we will polish your teeth using a special toothpaste that helps remove surface stains and leaves your teeth feeling smooth. Polishing also helps prevent future plaque buildup.
4. Flossing: Next, we’ll floss between your teeth to remove any remaining plaque or debris and ensure that every surface of your teeth is clean.
5. Fluoride Treatment: In some cases, we may apply a fluoride treatment to help strengthen your enamel and protect your teeth from cavities. Fluoride is especially helpful for patients at higher risk of decay.
6. Final Check: Dr. Ron Handley or Dr. Katie Chang will perform a final check to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy and discuss any recommendations for your oral care. We’ll work with you to create a treatment plan if we notice any issues, such as gum disease or cavities.

Meet Dr. Ron Handley and Dr. Katie Chang

At Handley Dental, we are proud to have Dr. Ron Handley and Dr. Katie Chang leading our practice. Dr. Handley has years of experience in general and family dentistry and provides exceptional care to every patient. He works with each patient individually to meet their unique dental needs.

Dr. Katie Chang is passionate about providing gentle, compassionate care to patients of all ages. She is committed to helping her patients achieve and maintain healthy smiles through preventive care and advanced treatments.

Dr. Handley and Dr. Chang bring a wealth of experience, knowledge, and a patient-centered approach to every dental cleaning and treatment.

What Our Patients Are Saying

We take pride in providing top-notch care, and our patients’ feedback reflects our commitment to excellence.

“I’ve always had a great experience at Handley Dental. The staff is friendly and professional, and I leave feeling confident about my dental health every time!”—Katie L.

Read more of our patient reviews!

Contact Us Today

At Handley Dental in Cypress, regular professional checkups are vital to maintaining good oral health for life. Whether you need a routine dental cleaning in Cypress or more specialized care, we’re here to help.

Contact us today to schedule your next dental cleaning appointment—we look forward to seeing you!