FAQ: Dental Cleanings in Cerritos, CA

At Bloomfield Dental in Cerritos, CA, we provide professional dental cleanings and preventive dental care to help patients maintain healthy teeth and gums. Our team focuses on removing plaque and tartar, identifying early signs of dental problems, and supporting long-term oral health. Below are frequently asked questions on dental cleanings.
​​​​​​​

1. Why are regular dental cleanings important?

Regular dental cleanings remove plaque and hardened tartar that brushing and flossing cannot fully eliminate. At Bloomfield Dental in Cerritos, we provide professional teeth cleanings to help prevent cavities, reduce the risk of gum disease, and maintain healthier teeth and gums. Preventive care also allows us to identify potential oral health concerns early.

2. How often should I schedule professional teeth cleanings?

Most patients benefit from professional dental cleanings every six months. However, patients with gum disease, frequent cavities, or other oral health concerns may require more frequent appointments. At our Cerritos dental office, we evaluate your oral health and recommend a cleaning schedule based on your individual needs.

3. What happens during a routine dental cleaning in Cerritos?

During a routine dental cleaning at our Cerritos practice, we remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and along the gumline. We may also polish your teeth to reduce surface stains. Depending on your needs, your visit may include a comprehensive dental exam to evaluate your teeth, gums, and overall oral health.

4. Can professional dental cleanings remove tartar buildup?

Yes. Once plaque hardens into tartar, regular brushing and flossing cannot remove it effectively. At Bloomfield Dental in Cerritos, we use professional dental instruments to remove tartar buildup from the teeth and gumline. Removing these deposits helps reduce gum irritation and supports better oral hygiene.

5. What is the difference between a routine cleaning and a deep cleaning?

routine dental cleaning focuses on removing plaque and tartar to maintain healthy teeth and gums. A deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, treats gum disease by removing deposits below the gumline and smoothing root surfaces when indicated. Our dentists in Cerritos assess your gum health to determine which treatment is appropriate.

6. How do I know if I need periodontal treatment?

Common signs of periodontal disease include bleeding gums, persistent bad breath, gum recession, swelling, and loose teeth. However, gum disease can develop without noticeable symptoms. At Bloomfield Dental in Cerritos, we evaluate your periodontal health and recommend appropriate treatment to address inflammation, infection, and buildup below the gumline.

7. Can regular dental cleanings help prevent cavities?

Yes. Professional teeth cleanings help reduce plaque buildup, which contributes to tooth decay. We combine preventive cleanings with dental examinations to identify early signs of cavities and recommend appropriate care. Consistent brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits provide stronger protection against decay.

8. Can a professional teeth cleaning help with bad breath?

Professional dental cleanings can improve bad breath caused by plaque, tartar, and bacteria accumulating around the teeth and gums. At Bloomfield Dental in Cerritos, we remove these deposits and evaluate potential oral health concerns. Persistent bad breath may indicate gum disease, cavities, dry mouth, or another condition that requires attention.

9. Are dental cleanings painful for patients with sensitive teeth?

Most routine dental cleanings are well tolerated, although patients with sensitive teeth or inflamed gums may experience temporary discomfort. We take your concerns seriously and adjust our approach when appropriate. We encourage patients to mention sensitivity before treatment so we can discuss ways to improve comfort.

10. Do I need dental X-rays during my cleaning appointment?

Not every dental cleaning requires X-rays. Dental imaging helps identify cavities between teeth, bone loss, and other concerns that may not be visible during a clinical examination. At Bloomfield Dental in Cerritos, we recommend X-rays based on your dental history, oral health findings, and individual diagnostic needs.

11. Should I get a dental cleaning if my gums bleed?

Yes. Bleeding gums can indicate inflammation caused by plaque buildup or developing gum disease. We examine your gums to determine the cause of bleeding and whether a routine cleaning or periodontal treatment is needed. Addressing persistent bleeding early helps protect your gum health and prevent complications.

12. How long does a professional dental cleaning take?

A routine dental cleaning typically takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the amount of buildup and your oral health needs. Additional examinations or imaging may extend the appointment. We provide thorough preventive care and explain any additional procedures recommended during your visit.

13. Do children need regular dental cleanings?

Yes. Professional dental cleanings are an important part of children's preventive oral healthcare. At Bloomfield Dental in Cerritos, we provide age-appropriate dental care to help maintain healthy developing teeth, monitor oral hygiene, and identify early signs of cavities. Regular visits also reinforce proper brushing and flossing habits from an early age.

14. Does dental insurance cover professional teeth cleanings in Cerritos?

Yes, crowns and bridges may need replacement if they become loose, cracked, worn, or no longer fit properly. Changes in the supporting teeth or gums can also affect an older restoration. At Bloomfield Dental in Cerritos, CA, we can evaluate the condition of your crown or bridge and recommend the appropriate next step.


If you are due for a professional dental cleaning or have concerns about your teeth and gums, contact Bloomfield Dental in Cerritos, CA, at (562) 245-4200. to schedule an appointment and take the next step toward better oral health.