Cleanings

Beautiful, healthy smiles are achieved through two practices: at-home oral care and bi-annual dental cleanings.

While at-home brushing and flossing certainly help maintain one’s oral health, dental cleanings are targeted at maintaining one’s overall health, as many bodily conditions are correlated with oral hygiene. Beyond identifying any oral or overall health issues, dental exams also reinforce at-home cleaning regimens and allow the entire oral cavity to be thoroughly cleaned and examined by a dental professional.

At Heflin Family Dentistry, we look forward to seeing our patients twice a year, and helping them achieve a more radiant, healthy smile. In dedicating ourselves to providing the highest quality care, we’re also committed to providing each patient with an enjoyable experience, doing all we can to ensure their comfort and confidence.

Enhance your smile and confidence with a dental cleaning from Heflin Family Dentistry—providing the best dental care in Albuquerque since 1975!

Our Cleaning Process

Consisting of a general 5-step process, dental cleanings address every area of the mouth, from the teeth and gums to the tongue, roof of mouth, and beyond. Our team of hygienists are trained on the latest techniques and use industry-leading tools to ensure a proper, effective cleaning following these steps:

1. Oral Exam
Before cleaning, our dental hygienist will physically examine your mouth. Using micro mirrors, they’ll check around the teeth and gums, looking and feeling for any abnormalities or signs of heath conditions, such as inflammation, redness, and sensitivity.

2. Plaque & Tartar Removal
Using a scaler, our hygienist will then carefully remove any plaque and tartar buildup. This normally occurs around the gumline and in between teeth. While brushing and flossing help prevent buildup, once it’s there, the only way for it to be removed is by a professional.

3. Polishing
Once tartar free, your teeth will then be cleaned and polished. A gritty toothpaste is used to remove any leftover tartar while also gently providing a deep cleaning to the teeth.

4. Flossing
A professional flossing helps target hard-to-reach areas and any particles left behind from the cleaning process, such as plaque or toothpaste. It also presents the opportunity for the hygienist to identify any areas of bleeding gums, which could be a sign of other health conditions.

5. Fluoride
The final step is a flouride treatment. Fluoride is used as a protectant on the teeth, helping to fight against cavities for up to several months. Upon choosing your flavor, the fluoride will be applied either by brush or a set of trays. It will harden, then vanish naturally with saliva.

To schedule your bi-anuual cleanings with the leading Albuquerque dentists, simply call us at (505) 883-0323. We look forward to seeing you and guiding you toward a more beautiful, healthy smile!