Directions
Preventive Teeth Cleaning
Preventive Teeth Cleaning
Home » Preventive Teeth Cleaning

The importance and ease of routine professional cleanings at our office

A lifetime of healthy smiles means a lifetime commitment to oral care at home and professional care at our office in Los Alamitos, California. You really cannot have one without the other; good hygiene at home is essential because plaque is constantly building up on the teeth. You have to manage it and the other substances that work together to potentially damage your attractive and functional smile.

Yet, preventive teeth cleaning by one of our skilled dental hygienists accomplish what cannot be done with standard home care techniques and tools alone. Since no one can remove all plaque, it builds up and hardens into tartar on our teeth and at the gum line. Tartar is stubborn and requires a well-trained hand equipped with special tools to remove it. Our patients love how fresh their mouths feel after a good cleaning! It also works wonders to prevent surface stains that make our teeth look drab and unhealthy and that prematurely “age” our smiles. 

What to expect at your next cleaning

Before your mouth can look and feel it’s fresh best, one of our hygienists will look for trouble signs. These could include inflamed gums, strange sores, or popping and clicking sounds when you open and close your mouth (indicative of TMJ dysfunction). Now, if it is a concerning issue, one of our six dentists will take a peek inside to ensure that it’s OK to move forward with the cleaning process. 

For example, some patients with active gum disease may be better candidates for “deep cleaning,” scaling, and root planing, as an alternative to the standard professional teeth cleaning. Active infections may need to be cleared. 

We use the most gentle techniques and also have relaxing “helpers” to keep even the most anxious or fearful patients comfortable. Generally, though, as long as you practice consistent flossing and brushing at home, there should not be a lot of discomfort during this standard service. There may be discomfort or sensitivity if your home care is lax or challenging. But, again, we can resolve discomfort through other means (including numbing topicals).

Special dental instruments are carefully applied during the cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and around the gum line. A professional brush is then used to painlessly scrub or polish the teeth and provide that wonderful refreshing clean sensation! Lastly, your teeth get a good flossing to lift any lingering plaque and the special paste used during the cleaning process. We are happy to walk you through the process and discuss ways to step up your flossing and brushing game. We can even provide you with new oral care products to try, such as interdental picks and floss threaders for hard-to-reach spaces. 

A comprehensive exam generally accompanies the cleaning. During this appointment, x-rays may be taken, and our dentists can also discuss or apply professional preventive services or products – from dental sealants to fluoride. 

Has it been more than six months since your last check-up? If so, you are overdue! Call Los Alamitos Dental Care without delay at (562) 539-0011 to schedule your cleaning today.

Dr. John Wallace DDS near me

John Wallace, DDS

Dr. John Wallace, a founding partner of Los Alamitos Dental Care, has over 25 years of experience in restorative dentistry. A UCLA School of Dentistry honors graduate, he is highly skilled in Invisalign treatment. He is recognized as a leading expert in managing airway disorders such as snoring and sleep apnea. Dr. Wallace's extensive experience and commitment to patient care have made him a trusted figure in the community, known for his authoritative approach and dedication to improving patients' oral health.

Connect with Dr. John Wallace on Healthgrades , Vitals , Sharecare , RateMDs
Dr. Michael Zell, DDS near me

Michael Zell, DDS

Dr. Michael Zell has been a key Los Alamitos Dental Care member since 1998, with a strong focus on ethical and high-quality patient care. He holds a degree in biology from UC Irvine and graduated from UCLA School of Dentistry, followed by advanced training in General Dentistry. Dr. Zell is primarily known for his work with children and his ability to build trust with adult patients. His experience and commitment to ethical practice solidify his reputation as a trustworthy and authoritative dental professional.

Connect with Dr. Michael Zell on Healthgrades , Vitals , RateMDs
Josh Winer, DDS near me

Josh Winer, DDS

Since joining Los Alamitos Dental Care in 2000, Dr. Josh Winer has built a reputation for his expertise in repairing broken teeth and implant restoration. A USC School of Dentistry graduate, Dr. Winer is known for his patient-centered approach and dedication to providing high-quality dental care. His extensive experience and thorough understanding of a wide range of dental procedures make him a trusted and authoritative figure in dentistry.

Connect with Dr. Josh Winer on Find-a-Dentist
Kerry Hahn, DDS near me

Kerry Hahn, DDS

Dr. Kerry Hahn is a highly respected dentist with a distinguished academic background, including being the valedictorian of his class at UCLA School of Dentistry. He completed additional training at the VA Medical Center of Long Beach, where he continues to provide specialized care to veterans. Dr. Hahn’s commitment to excellence and extensive experience in general and specialized dentistry underscore his authority and trustworthiness as a dental professional.

Connect with Dr. Kerry Hahn on LinkedIn
Dr. Jake Sylwanowicz, DDS near me

Jake Sylwanowicz, DDS

Dr. Jake Sylwanowicz is a highly skilled general dentist known for his comprehensive approach to patient care. A UCLA School of Dentistry graduate with honors, Dr. Jake furthered his training at the VA Medical Center Long Beach, gaining expertise in treating complex dental cases. His focus on building lasting patient relationships and broad knowledge across all aspects of dentistry make him a trustworthy and authoritative figure in his field.
Dr. Dmitriy Ivanov, DDS near me

Dmitriy Ivanov, DDS

Dr. Dmitriy Ivanov is a specialist in Periodontics with advanced training in periodontal disease treatment, dental implantology, and IV sedation. Graduating summa cum laude from UC Santa Barbara and UCLA School of Dentistry, Dr. Ivanov completed a rigorous residency at the Veterans Hospital of West Los Angeles. His role as a former Clinical Instructor at UCLA and his expertise in managing complex cases highlight his authority in the field. Dr. Ivanov’s commitment to providing personalized, top-quality care ensures his patients receive the most trustworthy and effective treatment.

Connect with Dr. Dmitriy Ivanov on LinkedIn

Success Stories

Patients smile gallery
Patients smile gallery