Dental Cleanings Help Protect Teeth and Gums

A professional dental cleaning removes plaque, bacteria, and tartar that brushing and flossing alone can’t reach—especially along the gumline and between teeth. Routine teeth cleanings in La Jolla, CA help reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, and chronic bad breath, while also allowing your dental team to identify concerns early.

At Open Wide La Jolla Dentistry, we typically recommend dental cleanings at least twice per year, though some patients benefit from more frequent visits based on gum health, medical history, or lifestyle factors. If you’ve had uncomfortable cleanings in the past, our modern approach focuses on comfort as well as results.

What Is a Dental Cleaning?

A dental cleaning is a preventive procedure that removes plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and around the gums. Cleanings help prevent tooth decay, gum inflammation, and periodontal disease while supporting fresh breath and overall oral health.

Dental cleanings are typically performed by a licensed dental hygienist and may include an evaluation of gum health, polishing, flossing, and personalized recommendations for at-home care. Cleanings are a core part of preventive dental treatments.

Now offering a modern approach: Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT)

Biofilm is a thin, sticky layer of bacteria that forms on teeth, around the gums, and on restorations. It is a leading cause of cavities and gum disease. Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) is a modern, systematic approach to professional teeth cleaning that focuses on identifying and gently removing biofilm with greater precision.

Instead of relying primarily on manual scraping, GBT allows the hygienist to target the areas that need attention most—often resulting in a more comfortable experience while preserving healthy tooth and gum structure.

Guided Biofilm Therapy vs Traditional Teeth Cleaning

If you’ve experienced sensitivity or discomfort during past cleanings, the difference often comes down to how the cleaning is performed. Here’s how Guided Biofilm Therapy compares to traditional dental cleaning methods.

Feature	Guided Biofilm Therapy	Traditional Cleaning
Biofilm removal	Biofilm is identified and targeted	Biofilm not typically visualized
Comfort	Often gentler for sensitive teeth and gums	May rely heavily on scraping
Precision	Guided, selective approach	Generalized approach
Surface stain removal	Designed to help remove stains	Limited stain removal
Gum recession or sensitivity	Often better tolerated	Can feel uncomfortable
Patient education	Visual guidance supports home care	Less visual feedback

Advanced technology for gentle teeth cleanings

When needed, we also use ultrasonic technology (often called a cavitron) to help remove plaque, bacteria, and hardened tartar efficiently. This approach uses water and gentle vibration and is often more comfortable than extensive manual scaling.

How Often Should I Have a Dental Cleaning?

Many patients benefit from a professional dental cleaning every six months. If you have gum inflammation, a history of periodontal concerns, or tend to build tartar quickly, Dr. Dains may recommend more frequent cleanings to support gum health.

Regular dental cleanings support long-term oral health

Routine cleanings help reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and tooth loss. They are one of the most effective ways to maintain a healthy smile and protect your overall oral health.

With regular checkups and cleanings at our La Jolla office, Dr. Dains—your trusted La Jolla dentist—and our experienced team will help you stay on track with preventive care.

Teeth Cleaning FAQs

Below are answers to common questions from patients looking for a comfortable, thorough teeth cleaning in La Jolla, CA.