Drs. Chen and Kim
Dr. Lawrence Chen and Dr. Alice Kim

Do I need routine cleanings if I already brush and floss at home?

Even with excellent home care, professional cleanings are essential for optimal oral health. Brushing and flossing are crucial daily habits, but cannot replace the thorough cleaning and evaluation that professional dental visits provide.

Why Home Dental Care Alone Isn't Enough

Professional cleanings address areas your home routine cannot:

  • Remove hardened tartar that only professional instruments can eliminate
  • Clean below the gumline, where bacteria accumulate and cause gum disease
  • Polish away surface stains and plaque in hard-to-reach areas
  • Detect early signs of decay, gum disease, and oral health problems

Even the most diligent brushers and flossers miss spots, particularly between back teeth and along the gum line where bacteria thrive.

Beyond Teeth Cleaning

Professional visits to Drs. Kim and Chen include thorough examinations to identify potential problems before they result in pain or complex treatment to resolve. Detecting cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and other conditions typically allows for simpler, more conservative treatment.

The combination of excellent home care and regular professional cleanings provides the best protection for your oral health, helping you avoid serious dental problems and maintain your smile for life.

Due for a Teeth Cleaning? 

Our hygienists are known for their gentle touch and for providing thorough cleanings crucial for healthy teeth and gums. Call our Baltimore, MD, dental office at (410) 235-8525 to schedule your routine cleaning and checkup.

We serve patients throughout all surrounding areas, including families and professionals near Johns Hopkins University, Hampden, and Roland Park.

If you have difficulty using our website, please email us or call us at (410) 235-8525
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