Dental Cleaning

A dental cleaning is a professional cleaning you receive from a dentist or dental hygienist. Most dental cleanings take only between 25 and 30 minutes. Cleanings should be performed every six months to prevent excessive plaque buildup. Plaque left untreated can lead to unhealthy gums and tooth decay. A routine dental cleaning should include scaling, root planning and polishing. Scaling: This is the process of removing plaque and tartar from all tooth surfaces in a variety of methods, depending on the amount of plaque and tartar.
Dental hygienists traditionally perform scaling by hand. However, new and advanced technology has lead to more modern methods such as electric scalers. This sophisticated tool allows dental cleanings to be performed more efficiently and in less time. To achieve best results, both electric and manual scaling methods are combined for dental cleanings.
Root planning: This is the process of cleaning pockets in the gums to treat and prevent gum problems.
Root planning is used to treat moderate to advanced gum diseases. When the gum is inflamed, gum pockets become deeper and they may lose connections to the bone inside. The deeper the pockets, the easier it is for plaque deposits to become trapped and worsen gum problems. Root planning involves inserting a pointed dental tool called scalers into the gym pockets to clean plaque buildup. Depending on the degree o difficulty, root planning may take several appointments and a local anesthesia may be used to prevent pain.
Polishing: This is the last step in tooth cleaning and involves finishing the surface of the teeth to make them shiny and clean.
There are two kinds of polishing: air polishing and rubber tip polishing. Air polishing works by spraying high pressured water mixed with baking soda paste onto the surface of your teeth. This powered water washes away residue and plaque while baking soda removes stains. Rubber cup polishing uses a low-speed and gentle handpiece that contains a polishing paste made of abrasive ingredients ideal for removing stains.
Call Shumway Dental Care today for your next dentist appointment at (480) 820-3400!

Welcome to Shumway Dental

Dr. Shumway, an Arizona dentist, will help you discover how you can have that perfect smile you have always dreamed of. Our office emphasizes both family and cosmetic dentistry. We have tools and the technology to improve your smile - easily and comfortably.

Dr. Andrew Shumway is an Arizona dentist located in Chandler and servicing the communities of Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Tempe, Queen Creek, and Ahwatukee. His dental practice includes general and cosmetic dentistry. Being the member of various Arizona dentist & other associations, he is constantly undergoing dental education programs so as to stay on top of the ever-changing techniques in modern dentistry.

At Shumway Dental Care, most dental insurance plans are accepted. For the convenience of the patients, Dr. Shumway has qualified treatment coordinators who will file your insurance claims for you. If you do not have insurance, dental work can be financed OAC. Dr. Shumway believes everyone is entitled to quality dental work and a comforting dental experience. Therefore, he is always accepting new patients and appreciates any referrals.

If you have any questions or would like to know how we can give you a better smile, call our dental office today for an appointment at (480) 820-3400!