Preventative care
Exams, x-rays, and routine maintenance.
Dental
Routine cleanings, in the same office.
For orthodontic patients and anyone in the family — cleanings, polishing, and a thorough exam, alongside the rest of our care.
Schedule a consultationWhat it is
Dental cleanings — the plain-English version.
A professional cleaning removes the plaque and tartar that brushing and flossing can't fully reach, then polishes the enamel surface. We schedule cleanings around orthodontic appointments when possible, so families don't make two separate trips.
- Plaque and tartar removal at and below the gumline.
- Polishing to remove surface stains.
- Full intraoral exam including soft-tissue assessment.
- Personalized notes on brushing, flossing, and gum health.
Is this for you
When to schedule a cleaning
- Every six months for most patients.
- More frequently if you're in active orthodontic treatment.
- When your gums bleed during brushing or feel inflamed.
- If it's been over a year since your last visit.
The visits
What the process actually looks like.
Step-by-step, so there are no surprises at the chair.
Exam and intake
A quick review of your dental history, any recent x-rays, and any concerns you want addressed.
Scaling
Plaque and tartar are removed from each tooth, including just below the gumline.
Polishing
The enamel surface is polished to remove staining and leave a smooth finish.
Findings and follow-up
We walk through anything we noticed — soft tissue, wear patterns, brushing technique — and schedule the next visit.
Related care
You may also want to read about.
Porcelain veneers
Cosmetic shaping for chips, gaps, and discoloration.
Cosmetic dentistry
Whitening, bonding, and shaping for everyday smiles.
From the blog
Reading on dental cleanings.
Treatment timeline
How to Brush and Floss With Braces: A Practical Guide
How to brush and floss with braces, step by step: the right tools, a realistic routine, and what to do about white spots. From a Bakersfield orthodontist.
Read moreNext step
- Since 1989
- Private treatment rooms
- TMJ & complex cases
- Bilingual · English / Spanish
- Multi-generational families
Talk through dental cleanings at a consultation.
Bring your insurance card. We will walk through the bite, the timeline, and what is covered before any treatment starts.
Schedule a consultation