General Dentistry
in NYC

Professional Teeth Cleaning

During the same appointment as your checkup, our hygienists will carefully remove any plaque and tartar present on your teeth. Our custom dental tools allow us to address parts of your mouth that a toothbrush and floss have difficulty reaching. Although brushing and flossing at home is undoubtedly the best way you can maintain your oral health, having a regular, deep cleaning at New York Smiles Institute will ensure that your teeth stay their cleanest.

Our hygienist and dentists will discuss your oral hygiene routine at home and may make recommendations to improve your dental health. Brushing twice daily with fluoridated toothpaste and flossing once a day is best. You may want to rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash and rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash after meals. We may recommend techniques for better brushing, such as using a lighter touch, brushing in slow circles, or switching to a water flosser and electric toothbrush. These dental hygiene tips can ensure less plaque and tartar buildup at your next visit and reduce your risk of gum disease and cavities.

Fluoride Treatment

During the cleaning, the hygienist will apply fluoride to your teeth. The enamel — the protective outer layer on teeth that safeguards teeth from cracking — is strengthened by this fluoride application. Fluoride also prevents and helps to reverse tooth decay. Fluoride is especially important for children to promote the growth of healthy teeth.  

Dental Sealants

Some teeth, particularly the molars, have so many crevices that it can be difficult to remove all the plaque and bits of food even with frequent toothbrushing. Sealants cover up some of the nooks and crannies to decrease the chances of developing decay and cavities. While sealants do not replace the need for brushing, they make it easier to get the job done effectively.

Dental X-Rays

To make accurate assessments of your oral health, our dentists have state-of-the-art X-ray equipment in our office. This technology allows us to safely detect tooth decay, health issues hidden beneath the gumline, abscesses, bone loss and cancer. X-rays are especially good at catching dental problems in their early stages before any symptoms manifest. The earlier treatment begins, the easier and more cost-effective it usually is to resolve the issue.   

What Are the Benefits of General Dentistry? 

Dental exams, cleanings, and preventive treatments, such as fluoride treatment and dental sealants, can help you avoid gum disease and tooth decay. These appointments may catch oral cancers early when they are more likely to respond to treatment. X-rays during your exam can detect cavities in their earliest stages, before they cause severe damage.

General dentistry is personalized dental care for your needs, including fluoride application, mouthguards or nightguards to prevent tooth damage, dental sealants, home hygiene instruction, and nutrition and oral health counseling. 

Gum disease is linked to certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. Untreated gum disease can spread infection into the bloodstream, making it more challenging to control blood sugar and worsening heart issues. General dentistry can lower this risk by addressing or preventing gum disease for good oral and overall health.

Am I A Candidate for General Dentistry? 

Everyone is a good candidate for general dentistry, including aging adults missing most or all of their teeth. Small children should start seeing a general dentist shortly after their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth, with continued dental exams and cleanings for life. Most people should have dental exams and teeth cleanings every six months, but those prone to tartar buildup may need more frequent visits. Some men and women with excellent oral health may need fewer dental exams. 

What Is the Recovery Time for General Dentistry? 

Dental appointments involving routine services such as teeth cleanings and X-rays typically don’t require downtime. Some patients may have sore or bleeding gums for a few days after a deep cleaning. Fluoride treatments and polishing may require waiting 30 minutes before drinking or eating. Our team may tell you to avoid hot foods and drinks for four hours and items that may stain teeth for about six hours. 

Your soreness after a teeth cleaning depends on your oral health. Someone who does not floss often may have more gum irritation than someone who flosses daily. Any discomfort after your dental exam is typically gone within one or two days. 

How Long Does a Dental Exam and Cleaning Last? 

Most appointments for dental exams and teeth cleanings take about one hour, depending on the state of your teeth and gums. Some patients require more in-depth cleaning with dental tools than others. You may need to plan for extra time for dental X-rays or fluoride treatment. The average time for a dental exam is 60 to 90 minutes, and the teeth cleaning aspect may take 30 to 60 minutes. Patients typically enjoy polished teeth for several months, and that clean feeling may last until your next visit with proper care.

Make an Appointment

It is no coincidence that our patients with the healthiest mouths are the same patients who are committed to regular dental cleanings and checkups. Whether it’s been six months or more since your last dental appointment or you are in the market for a new dentist with a genuine concern for your oral health, please call New York Smile Institute at (212) 319-6363 to get your teeth and gums back on track.