Same-day appointments may be available

Professional Cleanings

Regular exams and cleanings to maintain good oral health and catch problems early.

(703) 671-0626
Professional Cleanings

What is Professional Cleanings?

A professional dental cleaning (prophylaxis) is a preventive treatment where our skilled hygienists thoroughly remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains from your teeth. It is paired with a comprehensive exam by Dr. Abdeen to evaluate your overall oral health.

Ideal Candidates

Everyone! The American Dental Association recommends professional cleanings every six months for individuals of all ages. If you have a history of gum disease, we may recommend more frequent visits.

Key Benefits

  • Prevents cavities and tooth decay
  • Helps prevent and reverse early gum disease (gingivitis)
  • Freshens breath and removes surface stains
  • Allows us to catch and treat minor issues before they become painful or expensive
  • Supports overall bodily health by reducing oral inflammation

How Does It Work?

Our hygienist uses specialized, gentle instruments to scale away hardened plaque (tartar) that your toothbrush at home cannot remove. Your teeth are then polished to a smooth finish and professionally flossed. Finally, the dentist conducts a thorough exam, reviewing X-rays and checking for cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer.

Recovery & Aftercare

You can return to your normal routine immediately. Your teeth will feel exceptionally clean and smooth. If your gums were slightly inflamed prior to the cleaning, they might be mildly tender for a few hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Even with excellent home care, plaque can hide in hard-to-reach areas and harden into tartar, which can only be removed with professional dental tools.

For most patients, every six months is ideal. We may recommend every three to four months if you are managing periodontal (gum) disease.

Yes, almost all dental insurance plans cover 100% of the cost for two routine cleanings and exams per year.

Routine cleanings are generally painless. If you have sensitive teeth or gums, please let us know so we can ensure your comfort throughout the visit.

Ready to get started?

Take the next step toward a healthier smile. We accept most major insurance plans and offer CareCredit financing to make your treatment affordable.

Prefer to call?

(703) 671-0626

Alexandria Smiles Dentistry
Alexandria Smiles

5234 Dawes Avenue, Alexandria, VA 22311

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