No matter how diligently you brush and floss, plaque accumulates in places your toothbrush simply can't reach — below the gumline, between crowded teeth, and along the backs of your molars. Over time, that plaque hardens into tartar (calculus), which can only be removed with professional instruments. Left unchecked, tartar buildup leads to gum inflammation, bone loss, and eventually tooth loss.
At Newpoint Family Dental in Unionville, CT, professional cleanings are about much more than polish and a fresh feeling. They're a clinical examination of your entire oral health — and often the appointment where we catch small problems before they become expensive ones.
What Happens During a Dental Cleaning
Our hygienists begin by examining your gums and measuring pocket depths around each tooth — an early indicator of gum disease. Next, we use ultrasonic and hand instruments to carefully remove tartar deposits above and below the gumline. We floss between every tooth, polish the surfaces to remove surface stains, and finish with a fluoride treatment if appropriate.
Throughout the process, we note anything that needs the doctor's attention — a suspicious spot, a filling that's showing wear, early signs of grinding. Your cleaning appointment is also when we update your digital X-rays on a recommended schedule, giving us a complete picture of what's happening beneath the surface.
How Often Should You Get a Cleaning?
For most patients, twice a year is the standard recommendation. Some patients — particularly those with a history of gum disease or who are prone to heavy tartar buildup — benefit from cleanings every three to four months. We'll recommend a schedule based on your individual needs, not a one-size-fits-all rule.
Cleanings and Your Overall Health
Research continues to link oral health to systemic conditions including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory illness. Bacteria from gum infections can enter the bloodstream and contribute to inflammation throughout the body. Regular cleanings aren't just about your teeth — they're a meaningful part of staying healthy overall.
Patients throughout Farmington Valley — from Farmington and Avon to Simsbury and Canton — trust Newpoint for preventive care that's thorough, gentle, and honest. If it's been a while since your last cleaning, you're welcome here. No lectures, no guilt — just a fresh start.