How often should I have a dental exam and cleaning?

It is generally recommended to have a dental exam and cleaning every six months. Regular six-month visits allow the dentist to monitor your oral health closely, catch any potential issues early on, and perform a thorough cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup.

Can dental cleanings whiten teeth?

Dental cleanings can help to improve the appearance of your teeth and may make them appear whiter. During a dental cleaning, a dental hygienist will remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains from your teeth. These stains are often caused by substances like coffee, tea, tobacco, and certain foods.

Can children benefit from dental exams and cleanings?

Absolutely! Dental exams and cleanings are essential for children's oral health. Regular visits to the dentist from an early age can help establish good oral hygiene habits and detect any dental issues early on. Children may be more prone to cavities, so professional cleanings can effectively remove plaque and protect their developing teeth.

Are dental exams and cleanings covered by dental insurance?

In many cases, dental exams and cleanings are covered by dental insurance plans. Most dental insurance policies prioritize preventive care as a way to reduce the need for more extensive and costly treatments. However, coverage can vary depending on your insurance provider and plan. It's essential to review your insurance policy or contact your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage for dental exams and cleanings.

Benefits of Dental Cleanings In Willoughby Hills, OH

A Brighter, Healthier Smile Starts with Regular Dental Cleanings in Willoughby Hills, OH

You brush. You floss. Maybe you even rinse with mouthwash. So why bother with professional dental cleanings? The truth is, no matter how thorough your at-home routine is, it’s not enough to remove all the plaque and tartar that build up over time. Regular cleanings do more than just make your teeth feel fresh—they protect your oral health, prevent major issues, and even benefit your overall well-being.

At Smile Brighter, the best dentist in Willoughby Hills, OH, Dr. Phillip Wallace and our skilled team provide top-tier dental cleanings that go beyond the basics. Whether you’re in Willoughby Hills, Wickliffe, Eastlake, or Richmond Heights, keeping up with professional cleanings is one of the smartest health investments you can make. Contact Dr. Wallace today by calling (440) 210-0999 to schedule your next dental cleaning.

Top Benefits of Routine Teeth Cleanings

Prevents Cavities Before They Start

Cavities aren’t just a childhood concern—adults are just as susceptible. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, is the leading cause of tooth decay. It clings to your teeth, producing acid that wears down enamel. If left unchecked, it hardens into tartar, which is even more damaging.

Regular dental cleanings remove this buildup before it leads to cavities, keeping your teeth strong and healthy. Even if you brush diligently, there are areas in your mouth that are nearly impossible to reach on your own. A professional cleaning at Smile Brighter ensures your teeth are as clean as possible, reducing the risk of decay.

Fights Off Gum Disease

Gum disease often starts silently, showing up as mild redness or occasional bleeding when brushing. But if left untreated, it can progress into a severe condition that leads to gum recession, tooth loss, and even bone damage. Worse yet, advanced gum disease requires costly and invasive treatments to manage.

By scheduling regular cleanings, you can stop gum disease in its tracks. Dr. Wallace and our team check for early signs of gum problems and remove the bacteria that cause inflammation. If you live in Mentor, Kirtland, or Euclid, getting routine cleanings now can save you from expensive periodontal treatments down the road.

Keeps Your Breath Fresh and Your Confidence High

Bad breath (halitosis) isn’t just embarrassing—it’s often a sign of deeper oral health issues. When plaque, food particles, and bacteria linger in your mouth, they create unpleasant odors. While mints and mouthwash offer temporary relief, they don’t solve the root of the problem.

Professional cleanings eliminate odor-causing bacteria, leaving your breath fresh and your confidence soaring. Whether you’re heading to a job interview in Lyndhurst, a date in Mayfield Heights, or a social event in South Euclid, fresh breath is always a plus.

Brightens Your Smile by Removing Stains

Love coffee, tea, or red wine? Unfortunately, these beloved beverages can leave stubborn stains on your teeth over time. Even if you brush twice a day, surface stains can still dull your smile.

A professional cleaning polishes your teeth, removing surface discoloration and giving your smile a noticeable boost. If you want an even whiter smile, Dr. Wallace also offers professional teeth whitening options for patients in Willoughby Hills and the surrounding areas.

Helps Detect Oral Health Issues Early

Early detection is key to preventing serious dental problems. During a cleaning, Dr. Wallace and his team carefully examine your mouth for signs of cavities, gum disease, and even oral cancer.

Catching issues early means easier, less invasive, and more affordable treatments. If you’re in Painesville, Chesterland, or Chardon, don’t wait until a toothache forces you into the dentist’s chair—stay ahead of problems with routine visits.

Protects Your Overall Health (Not Just Your Teeth!)

Your mouth is the gateway to your body, and oral health is closely linked to overall well-being. Studies show that poor oral hygiene is connected to serious health conditions like:

Heart disease
Diabetes complications
Respiratory infections
Pregnancy complications

Regular cleanings help reduce harmful bacteria that can travel through the bloodstream and affect other parts of the body. By keeping your mouth healthy, you’re also protecting your heart, lungs, and immune system.

If you’re in Willoughby Hills, OH, or nearby communities like Mentor-on-the-Lake or Willowick, scheduling your cleanings with Smile Brighter isn’t just about a beautiful smile—it’s about protecting your long-term health.

Saves You Money in the Long Run

Let’s be honest—no one enjoys unexpected dental bills, however, preventative care, like regular cleanings, helps you avoid expensive and painful dental procedures.

A routine cleaning costs far less than a dental filling, root canal, or gum surgery. By investing in preventative dental care now, you’re protecting yourself from costly treatments later.

Frequently Asked Questions

You most likely feel better after a dental cleaning as it eases stress on the immune system by eliminating potential threats. Your dentist effectively gets rid of plaque buildup and other residues that lurk between the teeth, eliminating bad bacteria from your body.

One of the most important aspects of regular dental cleaning is the removal of plaque and tartar. During your professional dental cleaning, your dentist removes built-up plaque and tartar, avoiding the possibility of tooth decay or gum disease from developing.

Keep Your Smile Bright with Smile Brighter in Willoughby Hills, OH

Your smile is one of your most valuable assets, and keeping it healthy doesn’t have to be complicated. With regular dental cleanings at Smile Brighter, you’re preventing decay, protecting your gums, and boosting your confidence—all in a single visit.

Dr. Phillip Wallace and our team proudly serve Willoughby Hills and surrounding areas like Highland Heights, Eastlake, and Richmond Heights. Whether it’s been six months or six years since your last cleaning, now is the perfect time to prioritize your oral health.

Schedule your professional dental cleaning at Smile Brighter today by calling (440) 210-0999 to enjoy the benefits of a cleaner, brighter, and healthier smile.