How often should I get a dental cleaning?

It's generally recommended to have a dental cleaning every six months. However, depending on your oral health, your dentist may suggest a different frequency. Individuals with certain dental conditions may require more frequent cleanings.

Can dental cleanings prevent tooth decay and gum disease?

Yes, regular dental cleanings can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Cleanings remove plaque and tartar that can lead to these conditions, and your dentist can also identify early signs of problems.

What's the difference between a regular cleaning and a deep cleaning?

A regular cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, focuses on the surfaces of the teeth and the gum line. A deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is more extensive and is used to treat gum disease. It involves cleaning below the gum line and smoothing the tooth roots to help gums reattach to the teeth.

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Feeding Hills Dental Care

33 Southwick St, Feeding Hills, MA 01030

(413) 786-7555

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(413) 786-7555

biannual dental cleanings in Agawam & Feeding Hills, MA

promoting oral health in Hampden County

Dental cleanings and checkups are important for keeping your teeth and gums healthy, and are recommended every six months by the American Dental Association. Cleanings done at Feeding Hills Dental Care provide our patients with healthier gums and teeth, reduced discoloration, and reduced risk of disease. With semi-annual dental cleaning appointments, you can expect to have a beautiful, healthy smile for years to come.

What To Expect During Your Dental Cleanings Visit

Dental cleanings are a straightforward process and are typically done in less than an hour for existing patients, and only slightly longer for new patients. The general process for your cleanings visit will look something like this:

Initial exam. Your hygienist will ask if you are experiencing any pain, if anything feels unusual, and for your medication history if it’s not on file. We’ll take a look around your mouth with a mirror to check your gums and teeth.

X-rays. While X-rays aren’t always necessary, it is recommended to get them at least once a year. X-rays are painless and only take a few minutes, and they can help us locate hidden cavities, bone loss, decay, and shifting teeth.

Plaque and tartar removal. Your hygienist will use a scalar to scrape plaque and tartar from your teeth and gum line. This prevents bacteria from building up in your mouth and in between your teeth.

Brushing. Your hygienist will apply toothpaste with our special polishing brush and remove any stains for a smooth finish.

Flossing. Your hygienist will floss your teeth to remove any plaque or tartar that has built up in between your teeth or under your gum line. This is an important step in preventing tooth decay and gum disease.

Fluoride treatment. After your teeth have been professionally cleaned, your hygienist may apply a fluoride treatment to help prevent tooth decay.

Are Dental Cleanings Painful?

Dental cleanings are not painful. You may feel a slight vibration when the hygienist is using the cleaning tool but it should not cause any discomfort. If you have sensitive teeth, let us know and we can take extra steps to ensure that you are comfortable during the cleaning. In the worst case scenario, you may feel slight tenderness from the plaque and tartar removal.

Will My Insurance Cover Dental Cleanings?

Most insurance plans cover at least two dental cleanings per year, but there may be some restrictions depending on your individual policy. We recommend checking with your insurance provider to see what type of coverage you have for dental cleanings. At our office, we accept a variety of insurance plans and are always happy to help you understand your coverage.

Contact Feeding Hills Dental Care for Your Dental Cleaning

If you are due for a dental cleaning or think you may need one, we encourage you to contact our Feeding Hills office today. We have over 30 years of experience and a team of dedicated dental professionals that will work diligently to ensure that your oral health is in top condition. We understand the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene and we want to help you achieve your best smile. Call Feeding Hills Dental Care to book your next appointment!

For more information about dental cleanings or to request an appointment, call us at (413) 786-7555 or visit our contact page.

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For more information or to request an appointment, call us at (413) 786-7555 or fill out the form below.

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frequently asked questions

your general dentistry questions, answered

How often should I get a dental cleaning?

It's generally recommended to have a dental cleaning every six months. However, depending on your oral health, your dentist may suggest a different frequency. Individuals with certain dental conditions may require more frequent cleanings.
Can dental cleanings prevent tooth decay and gum disease?

Yes, regular dental cleanings can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Cleanings remove plaque and tartar that can lead to these conditions, and your dentist can also identify early signs of problems.
What's the difference between a regular cleaning and a deep cleaning?

A regular cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, focuses on the surfaces of the teeth and the gum line. A deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is more extensive and is used to treat gum disease. It involves cleaning below the gum line and smoothing the tooth roots to help gums reattach to the teeth.

How can I maintain my oral health between dental cleanings?

Good oral hygiene practices are key. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, using mouthwash as recommended, and avoiding excessive sugary and acidic foods. It's also important to maintain a balanced diet for overall dental health.
Do dental cleanings have any side effects?

Dental cleanings are generally safe. Some people might experience slight sensitivity or mild bleeding of the gums, especially if there's pre-existing gum inflammation. However, these side effects are usually short-lived.
Is it normal for teeth to feel different after a cleaning?

Yes, it's common for teeth to feel smoother and more sensitive immediately after a cleaning. This is because dental plaque and tartar have been removed. Sensitivity usually decreases within a few days.

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Why Choose Feeding Hills Dental Care?

You have plenty of options when it comes to where to receive dental care– so why do so many patients in the Feeding Hills area trust Dr. Mark Bourcier with their oral health? We are a dental office of choice thanks to:

Over 30 Years of Experience

Financing Options Available

Offers Dental Emergency Care

Comprehensive Dental Services

Accepts Insurance Plans

Implant and Mini Implant Provider

From our Patients

over 300+ online reviews

"Today was my first visit after going to another practice that was becoming a chain. They were fantastic and so incredibly welcoming. They were much more gentle and thorough than my previous dentist. I look forward to going here for years to come with my family."

Tara W.

"Great experience, my oral health as always is our first. Short term relief with the long term longevity kept in mind! I’m very confident in the staffs decision making and am always thankful for the functional knowledge they share and pass on!"

Thomas D.

"This was my second visit to this dental office. The staff at this office is very friendly and professional. The service received is phenomenal. I am so glad I was referred. I am definitely going to recommend this dental office to my family and friends."

Nancy M.