Keep Your Smile Bright and Healthy with Routine Dental Cleanings in Strongsville
At Aerni Dental, we believe prevention is the foundation of great oral health. One of the most effective ways to maintain a healthy smile is through routine professional dental cleanings. Under the expert care of Dr. William M. Aerni and our experienced hygienists, dental cleanings at our Strongsville office go far beyond what you can achieve with a toothbrush and floss at home. Our goal is to help you prevent cavities, avoid gum disease, and enjoy a clean, confident smile.
Whether you’re a new patient or have been coming to Aerni Dental for years, regular cleanings are essential to keeping your teeth and gums in their best condition.
What Is a Dental Cleaning?
A dental cleaning, also known as a prophylaxis, is a preventive procedure performed by one of our highly trained dental hygienists. During this visit, we remove plaque (soft biofilm) and tartar (hardened plaque), polish away minor stains, and floss between your teeth. Cleanings are often paired with your regular exam and oral cancer screening to ensure total oral wellness.
These visits are crucial because no matter how diligent you are with brushing and flossing, plaque can still harden in places your toothbrush can’t reach. Left untreated, this buildup can lead to cavities, gingivitis, and eventually gum disease. At Aerni Dental, we recommend cleanings every six months for most patients, though Dr. Aerni may suggest more frequent visits if your oral health requires closer monitoring.
Who Benefits from Regular Dental Cleanings?
Everyone. Truly—everyone with teeth can benefit from cleanings at Aerni Dental.
We provide care for patients of all ages, from children getting their first teeth to seniors maintaining their dental restorations. You may especially benefit from cleanings if:
-
It’s been more than 6 months since your last dental visit
-
You’re prone to cavities or gum disease
-
You’re pregnant (hormonal changes can affect your gums)
-
You wear braces, dentures, or retainers
-
You have dry mouth, diabetes, or use tobacco products
-
You want fresher breath and a brighter smile
Even if your mouth feels fine, plaque and tartar can build up without noticeable symptoms. Don’t wait for problems to arise—keep your preventive care on schedule and let us help you avoid future issues.
Signs You’re Overdue for a Cleaning
It’s easy to fall behind on appointments, but some signs should prompt a sooner-than-planned visit:
-
Bleeding or swollen gums when brushing or flossing
-
Bad breath that doesn’t go away
-
Sensitivity to hot or cold foods
-
A fuzzy or rough feeling on your teeth
-
Staining or discoloration
-
Pain when chewing or brushing
-
Visible tartar along the gumline
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms—or if it’s just been a while—it’s time to schedule your cleaning with Dr. Aerni’s team.
What Happens During a Dental Cleaning at Aerni Dental?
We make the process smooth, comfortable, and effective. Here’s what to expect when you visit our Strongsville office for your cleaning:
1. Medical & Dental Review
We begin by reviewing your health history and any updates since your last visit. Certain medical conditions or medications can impact your oral health and how we provide your care.
2. Gentle Examination
Your hygienist will examine your gums and teeth, looking for plaque, tartar, inflammation, or any signs of trouble. If needed, digital X-rays may be taken to evaluate areas not visible to the eye.
3. Plaque and Tartar Removal (Scaling)
Using specialized instruments, your hygienist will carefully remove plaque and tartar from around and between your teeth, especially along the gumline. This step is essential for preventing gum disease and tooth decay.
4. Polishing
Once buildup is removed, your teeth are polished with a rotating brush and mildly abrasive paste to smooth the enamel and remove surface stains. This leaves your teeth feeling slick and refreshed.
5. Flossing
We professionally floss between each tooth to remove any lingering debris and to check for bleeding or tight contacts.
6. Fluoride Treatment (if needed)
For cavity-prone patients or children, we may apply a fluoride varnish or gel to help strengthen enamel and protect against future decay.
7. Final Exam with Dr. Aerni
Dr. Aerni will perform a final review of your teeth, gums, and any X-rays. If any issues are found, such as early cavities or signs of gum problems, he will discuss next steps and answer your questions.
Our office also includes an oral cancer screening as part of every routine visit—a fast, non-invasive check of the soft tissues of your mouth, tongue, and throat for any abnormalities.
Comfort and Pain Management
Dental cleanings at Aerni Dental are typically painless, but if you have sensitive teeth, inflamed gums, or dental anxiety, we have solutions to keep you comfortable:
-
Topical numbing gels can be applied to sensitive areas
-
Gentle techniques are used to minimize discomfort
-
We’ll communicate with you throughout the visit, and breaks are always welcome
Our goal is for you to leave feeling great—not just with your smile, but with the experience.
How Long Does a Cleaning Take?
Most dental cleaning appointments at Aerni Dental last between 45 minutes and 1 hour. This includes your cleaning, exam, X-rays (if due), and consultation with Dr. Aerni. If it’s been a long time since your last visit, or if there’s significant buildup, we may need more time or recommend a separate visit for deeper cleaning.
Aftercare and Next Steps
After your cleaning, your mouth will feel refreshed and your smile may look brighter. Any minor gum sensitivity typically fades within a day. Be sure to:
-
Continue brushing and flossing daily
-
Use any products recommended by Dr. Aerni (like fluoride toothpaste or prescription rinses)
-
Avoid staining foods or drinks for a few hours after polishing
-
Call us if you notice new symptoms like tooth pain or gum swelling
Most importantly, don’t let your next visit fall off your radar. We’ll help you schedule your next cleaning right away—usually six months from today.
Schedule Your Cleaning in Strongsville Today
If you’re due—or overdue—for a dental cleaning, we’re ready to help. Aerni Dental makes preventive care easy, efficient, and stress-free. Dr. Aerni and our friendly team are dedicated to protecting your oral health and keeping you smiling with confidence.
Call us at (440) 773-5606 or book online to schedule your next cleaning.