A dental cleaning, also called a professional teeth cleaning, is a visit with a hygienist who removes plaque and tartar from your teeth. At Genuine Care Dental in Saratoga, CA, we work slowly and carefully, and we tell you what we are doing as we go. Brushing and flossing matter a great deal, but they cannot remove hardened tartar. Only a hygienist can.
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that builds up on your teeth every day. When it is left behind, it hardens into tartar, and tartar irritates your gums and feeds cavities. Regular professional teeth cleaning keeps that buildup from turning into bigger problems, and it helps keep your gums healthy.
Your hygienist works through your mouth one section at a time. A typical cleaning includes:
Your teeth often look brighter afterward, because stains are gone. A cleaning does not change the natural shade of your teeth. If you would like a bigger change, we can talk about teeth whitening.
A cleaning is usually done alongside a dental checkup. The hygienist cleans, and your dentist examines your teeth, gums, and bite. Two sets of trained eyes on your mouth means small changes get noticed early.
A routine cleaning is meant for healthy gums. If your exam shows signs of gum disease, such as bleeding, swelling, or pockets around the teeth, you may need more than a regular cleaning. In that case we will explain your options, including gum therapy, and why we recommend them.
Most people find a cleaning comfortable. If your teeth or gums are sensitive, tell us, and we will adjust and can talk about numbing. You can ask us to pause at any time. If dental visits make you anxious, ask about our sedation options. And if it has been a long while since your last cleaning, that is completely fine. We start where you are.
A cleaning should feel like a break in your day, not a chore. We didn't want it to feel like a dental office, so we didn't build one. Warm wood, real plants, a couch you'd actually choose to sit on, and chairs picked for comfort as much as function, all so you forget where you actually are.
Dr. Rong and Mia lead the practice with an expert team of hygienists, assistants, and front desk staff who take the time to know you as a person.
Little extras help you unwind: an anxiety blanket and calming aroma, a neck pillow, lip balm, dark sunglasses, and free phone chargers. Put on a show, help yourself to the coffee bar, and let us take care of your teeth.
“Too often I see patients go into an office and they're just seen as a set of teeth with no person behind them. I want to know not only what our patients need, but also what they want, in terms of their health, their looks, and how they feel.”
– Dr. Rong, owner
“I absolutely would recommend Genuine Care, and I have already done so many times.”
– Amy, patient
“Dr. Rong was very patient. He carefully explained the treatment, so I feel very confident and comfortable.”
– Raymond, patient
