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Teeth Cleaning

Four Corners Dental and Dentures

James D Moore, DDS

General Dentistry & Dental Implants located in Bodo Park, Durango, CO

Preventive teeth cleanings are noninvasive and low-cost treatments to protect your oral health as you age. At Four Corners Dental and Dentures in Durango, Colorado, board-certified general dentist James Moore, DDS, offers thorough teeth cleanings for adults of all ages. Dr. Moore has the most advanced dental equipment to provide comfortable and comprehensive cleanings at his office. To learn more about teeth cleanings, call Four Corners Dental and Dentures or schedule an appointment online today.

Teeth Cleaning Q&A

What is a teeth cleaning?

A teeth cleaning is a preventive treatment that removes plaque — a sticky type of bacteria — from your teeth and gums. Plaque clings to teeth and releases toxins that erode your tooth enamel. The hard layer of enamel protects the soft dentin underneath against damage and decay.

When plaque erodes your tooth enamel, it leaves you vulnerable to decay (cavities), fractures, and infections. Regular teeth cleanings prevent plaque from accumulating on your teeth, reducing your need for costly and invasive treatments in the future.

What happens during a teeth cleaning?

When you arrive for your teeth cleaning, the team at Four Corners Dental and Dentures takes digital X-rays of your mouth to view the underlying structures of your teeth. X-rays allow Dr. Moore to detect deep decay, abnormal tooth development, and bone loss in the jaw.

Next, Dr. Moore and the team clean your teeth. They start by scraping away plaque above the gum line (the visible portion of your teeth). After removing all traces of plaque, the team uses a high-powered toothbrush to eliminate any leftover bacteria.

Finally, Dr. Moore and the team floss between your teeth to remove hidden food particles and other debris. The team may also polish your teeth before you leave the office.

Dr. Moore often recommends fluoride treatments after a cleaning to protect and strengthen your teeth.

What happens after a teeth cleaning?

As a preventive treatment, a teeth cleaning allows Dr. Moore to identify early signs of tooth decay, erosion, and other types of damage. If he detects potential threats to your oral health, he may recommend returning to the office for:


  • Same-day dental crowns
  • Tooth extractions
  • Dental implants
  • Dental bridges
  • Dentures
  • Root canal treatment

Dr. Moore and the team invest in the latest dental technology, including dental cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), intraoral scanners, and same-day restorations, to ensure your treatments are as quick and comfortable as possible.

How often do I need a teeth cleaning?

Dr. Moore and the team recommend visiting for a comprehensive teeth cleaning at least once every six months to prevent the accumulation of plaque. 

To learn more about teeth cleanings, call Four Corners Dental and Dentures or schedule an appointment online today.