Professional Dental Cleanings: The Foundation of Excellent Oral Health

At Dr. Armen Akopian's dental practice, we emphasize that regular professional dental cleanings are not simply a cosmetic service but a crucial component of preventive dental care. Our comprehensive cleaning appointments provide benefits that extend far beyond what home care alone can achieve, helping to maintain your oral health and prevent costly, uncomfortable dental problems.

The Essential Benefits of Professional Dental Cleanings

Regular professional cleanings offer numerous advantages that support both your oral and overall health:

Removal of Plaque and Tartar

Even with diligent home care, plaque can accumulate in hard-to-reach areas and eventually harden into tartar (calculus) that cannot be removed by brushing or flossing. Our hygienists use specialized instruments to gently and thoroughly remove these deposits, preventing:

• Tooth decay and cavities
• Gum inflammation and periodontal disease
• Bad breath (halitosis)
• Surface staining and discoloration

Early Detection of Dental Issues

Regular cleaning appointments include thorough examinations that can identify potential problems in their earliest, most treatable stages:

• Incipient cavities that may be reversed with fluoride treatment
• Early signs of gum disease before bone loss occurs
• Changes in soft tissues that might indicate oral cancer
• Hairline cracks or worn restorations that could lead to more significant damage

Prevention of Gum Disease

Periodontal (gum) disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults and has been linked to numerous systemic health conditions. Regular cleanings are your first line of defense against this preventable condition.

Preservation of Existing Dental Work

Professional cleanings help maintain and extend the life of fillings, crowns, implants, and other dental restorations by keeping surrounding tissues healthy and addressing any issues before they compromise your dental work.

Connection to Overall Health

Research continues to demonstrate links between oral health and conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and pregnancy complications. Regular dental cleanings support not just your mouth but your entire body's wellbeing.

Our Comprehensive Cleaning Procedure

When you visit Dr. Akopian's office for a professional cleaning, you can expect a thorough, personalized experience:

1. Assessment and Planning

Our hygienist begins by reviewing your medical and dental history, discussing any concerns, and evaluating your current oral health status to customize your cleaning.

2. Dental Examination

Dr. Akopian or our dental hygienist will perform a comprehensive examination that includes:

• Checking for visible signs of decay or damage
• Evaluating existing restorations
• Examining soft tissues for abnormalities
• Assessing your periodontal health with gentle probing to measure gum pockets

3. Professional Cleaning (Prophylaxis)

Our standard cleaning procedure includes:

• Scaling: Careful removal of plaque and tartar from tooth surfaces, especially along the gumline and between teeth
• Root Planing: When necessary, gentle smoothing of root surfaces to remove bacteria and provide a clean surface that promotes gum reattachment
• Polishing: Removing surface stains and creating a smooth finish that helps resist future plaque accumulation
• Flossing: Thorough interdental cleaning to remove any remaining debris

4. Additional Preventive Treatments

Based on your individual needs, we may recommend:

• Fluoride Application: A concentrated fluoride treatment to strengthen enamel and prevent decay
• Sealants: Protective coatings for deep grooves in molars that are difficult to clean
• Antimicrobial Treatments: For patients with heightened risk of gum disease

5. Education and Home Care Guidance

We take time to provide personalized advice on:

• Proper brushing and flossing techniques
• Appropriate oral hygiene tools for your specific needs
• Nutritional guidance for dental health
• Strategies to address specific concerns such as sensitivity or dry mouth

Recommended Cleaning Frequency

For most patients, we recommend professional cleanings every six months. However, this schedule may be adjusted based on your individual risk factors and oral health status. Patients with the following conditions may benefit from more frequent cleanings:

• History of periodontal disease
• Heavy tartar buildup
• Certain medical conditions like diabetes
• Smoking or tobacco use
• Orthodontic treatment

Types of Dental Cleanings We Offer

Standard Prophylaxis

Our regular cleaning for patients with healthy gums and minimal tartar buildup.

Periodontal Maintenance

Specialized cleanings for patients who have previously been treated for periodontal disease, focused on preventing recurrence.

Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing)

A more intensive cleaning that extends below the gumline to address moderate to advanced gum disease, usually performed in quadrants over multiple appointments.

Making Your Cleaning Comfortable

We understand that some patients experience anxiety about dental cleanings. Dr. Akopian's practice is committed to creating a comfortable, positive experience through:

• Gentle techniques and modern instruments designed for comfort
• Clear communication about what to expect during each step
• Breaks as needed during your procedure
• Amenities to help you relax during your visit
• Discussion of sedation options for patients with significant anxiety

The Value of Regular Cleanings

Professional dental cleanings are one of the most cost-effective health investments you can make. By preventing decay, gum disease, and the need for extensive restorative treatments, regular cleanings save you time, money, and discomfort in the long run.

Experience the difference that thorough, personalized dental cleanings can make for your oral health. Contact Dr. Armen Akopian's office at (212)-753-0464 to schedule your professional cleaning and take a proactive step toward maintaining a healthy, beautiful smile for life.