Teeth cleaning at Marine Hills Dentistry in Federal Way, WA

Regular professional tooth cleaning keeps your smile healthy and bright and are an essential component of preventive dental care. At Marine Hills Dentistry in Federal Way, we maintain your mouth's health by removing plaque and tartar buildup before they become the source of decay or gum disease.

The primary causes of periodontal disease and cavities are hardened tartar and plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria. A good cleaning, therefore, prevents it and supports oral health.

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Advantages of Routine Cleaning

Prevent Cavities and Gum Disease
Professional cleaning removes plaque and tartar that can't be brushed off. This tremendously reduces your risk of decay and gum infections. Gum disease, if left untreated, can lead to tooth loss, so preventing it helps preserve your natural teeth.

Healthier Smile
Stains on the surface of teeth are removed through cleaning and polishing, allowing for a whiter, more appealing smile to be regained. Teething usually feels smoother and looks whiter after a cleaning.

Early Troubles Detection
You can detect early warning signs—such as cracked fillings, cracks, and cavities—during the cleaning before they become larger and more painful. Early treatment typically prevents the need for more complex therapies in the future.

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Teeth Cleaning Process

Our complete cleaning typically involves a series of critical steps, performed by a registered dental hygienist:

Step 1: First Examination and X-Rays (if needed)
We begin with a complete examination of your mouth and can take digital X-rays. Digital radiographs provide a clear view of teeth, roots, and bone structure with minimal radiation exposure.

Step 2: Removal of Tartar and Plaque
With specialized equipment (scalers), we scrape off plaque and hardened tartar from all tooth surfaces and below your gumline. An ultrasonic scaler, which shoots a spray of water with high-frequency vibrations, is repeatedly employed to loosen and rinse off tough deposits. Hand instruments can then be used to remove remaining deposits profitably, particularly around the gum line and between teeth.

Step 3: Polishing
Once we've scaled, we then polish your teeth with a rubber cup and a gentle abrasive paste. This smooths out the enamel and surface stains. Polishing not only leaves your teeth with that fresh shine, but it also makes it that much more difficult for plaque to stick in between appointments.

Step 4: Flossing and rinsing
We floss heavily to loosen any loose debris that may have accumulated between teeth. Water or the neutralizing solution loosens debris upon rinsing.

Step 5: Fluoride Treatment (if needed)
To provide additional protection to your teeth, we can apply fluoride varnish or gel. Fluoride strengthens enamel and can reverse incipient decay. It is beneficial for patients prone to cavities, as well as for children.

Step 6: Final Exam and Recommendations
The dentist then reviews the result of the cleaning, resolves any issues, and takes further X-rays if needed.

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Technology & Features

Marine Hills Dentistry uses modern tools to enhance your cleaning experience:

Digital X-Rays
For low radiation exposure and high-quality images of your jaw and teeth, we utilize digital radiography. Your photos are available immediately, allowing us to diagnose issues instantly and create accurate treatment plans.

Intraoral Camera
This small camera enables us to magnify and inspect hard-to-see areas in your mouth on a monitor. It allows you and our team members to notice tiny issues (like cracks or plaque buildup) that the naked eye might overlook. You can even see live images of your teeth on-screen.

Air Polishing and Ultrasonic Scalers
We frequently use an ultrasonic scaler to dislodge stubborn tartar with soothing vibrations and a water spray. For patients with sensitive teeth or those with heavily stained teeth, we offer an air-polishing system that removes biofilm using a jet of warm water, air, and finely powdered sodium bicarbonate, eliminating the need for abrasive scraping.

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Meet Our Dentist

Dr. Dennis Hahn, D.D.S.
He directs Marine Hills Dentistry and has been attending Federal Way since 2003. A graduate of the Loma Linda University School of Dentistry (Class of 1991), he is recognized for his gentle touch and commitment to delivering high-quality, advanced dentistry.

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Insurance and Payment Options

We are an in-network provider with most major dental insurance companies and submit your claims as a courtesy. For uninsured patients, we still offer payment options. We accept cash, checks, and all major credit cards.

Payment plans are available. Third-party financing to make treatment accessible to any budget. Contact the office manager to arrange special payment plans.

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Schedule Your Teeth Cleaning Today

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums starts with regular cleanings. To schedule your appointment, please call us or book online by visiting our website.