Gentle, Caring Dental Cleanings Near You
When you’re looking for dental care near you, you want to feel confident in your choice. Dr. Aimee Kraft and her team believe that great dental cleanings combine thorough care with genuine comfort—because your oral health matters, and so does how you feel during your visit. Patients from Brooklyn Heights, DUMBO, and Carroll Gardens have come to trust our gentle, comprehensive approach to preventive care. We take the time to listen to your concerns and explain what we’re doing, helping you feel informed and at ease throughout your cleaning.
Whether you’re new to the neighborhood or ready to find your dentist near you, we’re here to provide the caring, professional service you’re looking for. Call (718) 625-6629 to schedule your appointment and experience the difference.
The Importance of Preventive Care
Preventive dental care forms the foundation of modern dentistry, shifting focus from treating existing problems to preventing their occurrence entirely. Regular dental cleanings represent the most effective preventive measure available to patients, offering protection against the two most common dental diseases: tooth decay and periodontal disease. Dr. Aimee Kraft advocates for preventive approaches that help patients maintain their natural teeth throughout their lives while avoiding the discomfort and expense associated with restorative treatments.
The economic benefits of preventive care through regular cleanings cannot be overstated. The cost of routine cleanings is significantly lower than the expense of treating advanced dental problems such as root canals, crowns, bridges, and dental implants. Patients who invest in regular teeth cleanings often save thousands of dollars over their lifetime by avoiding these more complex procedures.
Research has established connections between oral health and various medical conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and stroke, making preventive care through dental cleanings an investment in both oral and systemic health.
What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning With Dr. Kraft
Understanding the dental cleaning process helps patients feel more comfortable and prepared for their appointments. Dr. Aimee Kraft and her team follow a systematic approach that addresses all aspects of oral health during each cleaning visit. The typical cleaning appointment lasts between 45 minutes to one hour, beginning with a comprehensive examination of the mouth, teeth, and gums using specialized instruments and a small mirror to identify any areas requiring special attention.
The primary focus involves plaque and tartar removal using specialized scalers that carefully eliminate hardened deposits from tooth surfaces and below the gum line. Following tartar removal, teeth undergo professional polishing with a gritty paste and rotating brush to remove surface stains and create smooth surfaces that resist bacterial adhesion. The appointment concludes with professional flossing and often includes fluoride treatments for patients at higher risk of tooth decay. Throughout the process, patients receive personalized oral hygiene instruction and recommendations for maintaining optimal oral health between visits.
Maintaining Oral Health Between Cleanings
Proper home care between professional cleanings plays a crucial role in maintaining the benefits of your dental cleaning appointments. Dr. Kraft recommends brushing at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, using proper technique to clean all tooth surfaces effectively. Electric toothbrushes can be particularly beneficial for patients who struggle with manual brushing technique or have limited dexterity.
Daily flossing removes plaque and food particles from between teeth where toothbrush bristles cannot reach effectively. Patients should use proper flossing technique, gently curving the floss around each tooth and moving it up and down rather than sawing back and forth. Antimicrobial mouthwashes can provide additional protection against bacteria while freshening breath, though they should complement rather than replace brushing and flossing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most patients benefit from professional dental cleanings every six months, though Dr. Aimee Kraft may recommend more frequent visits for patients with gum disease, diabetes, or other risk factors. Some patients with excellent oral health and low risk factors may be able to extend intervals to every nine months, while others may need cleanings every three to four months to maintain optimal oral health.
Routine dental cleanings should cause minimal discomfort for patients with healthy gums and regular cleaning habits. Patients with sensitive teeth, gum inflammation, or heavy tartar buildup may experience some discomfort during the cleaning process. Communication with your dental hygienist about any sensitivity or discomfort allows them to adjust techniques and provide appropriate pain management options.
Patients can typically eat immediately after routine dental cleanings, though those who receive fluoride treatments should wait 30 minutes before eating or drinking to allow maximum fluoride absorption. Avoid extremely hot or cold foods and beverages for a few hours if your teeth feel sensitive after cleaning. Patients who receive deep cleaning procedures may need to follow specific dietary restrictions during the healing period.
Mild bleeding immediately after a dental cleaning is normal, particularly for patients with gum inflammation or those who haven’t had recent cleanings. Gentle brushing and flossing should continue as recommended, as improved oral hygiene will reduce bleeding over time. Contact your dental office if bleeding persists beyond 24-48 hours or if you experience significant pain or swelling.
Don’t Wait Until It Hurts – Preventive Care Starts Now
Dr. Aimee Kraft provides comprehensive dental cleanings focused on prevention and long-term oral health. Our practice serves patients from Brooklyn Heights, DUMBO, and Carroll Gardens with thorough, professional care. Regular teeth cleanings help maintain healthy teeth and gums while preventing more costly treatments down the road. Call (718) 625-6629 to schedule your appointment.