What happens during a dental cleaning?

A dental cleaning starts with a review of your medical and dental history. Then, your dentist will perform the necessary screenings and X-rays , taking note of your gums’ health—not just your teeth’s. An experienced hygienist will then begin cleaning, using advanced tools to gently remove plaque and tartar before polishing your teeth with a prophy paste. Our dentists , Dr. Meyer and Dr. Clough, boast over 60 years of experience. We have the knowledge needed to provide the highest level of personalized care, keeping every visit comfortable and positive. A standard dental cleaning appointment takes about an hour, but new patients’ cleaning visits may take longer in order to perform a more comprehensive health review and X-rays. If you have recent X-rays, please let your hygienist know.

When should I schedule my child’s first cleaning?

Children should start receiving routine cleanings at 3 years old, as early care helps them develop healthy hygiene habits and a positive experience with the dentist.

How often should I get dental cleanings?

For most patients, we recommend scheduling cleanings every six months. However, we may recommend more frequent visits for those struggling with ongoing oral health issues, such as gum disease. Routine cleanings are essential for preventing tooth decay, gum disease, and even chronic bad breath. Professional cleanings also reduce harmful bacteria living in the mouth, supporting your overall health. While at-home oral care is important, only dental tools can remove plaque once it hardens into tartar. If left untreated, tartar can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and systemic health issues such as heart disease and diabetes.

What’s the difference between routine and periodontal cleanings?

We perform routine dental cleanings in Decatur as a form of preventive care , while periodontal cleanings , including scaling and root planing, treat active oral health issues. Periodontal maintenance is essential for patients with a history of gum disease.

Why do you use a prophy paste during cleanings?

We use prophy paste to remove any remaining plaque and polish your teeth for a smooth, shiny finish. Plus, this formula helps reduce stains to keep your smile bright. We also offer prophy jet prophylaxis, which uses a combination of air, water, and sodium bicarbonate to remove soft debris from your smile.

What should I do in between cleanings?

In between visits, it’s important to brush your teeth twice daily and floss once a day. Remember that regularly eating foods with a high sugar content and sodas that contain carbonic acid can deteriorate your teeth, so moderation is key. When possible, it’s best to drink soda through a straw to avoid direct contact with your teeth. Sticking to these simple habits significantly reduces your risk of tooth decay, which requires more extensive care. If you experience a dental emergency in between your visits, contact our office promptly. We’ll help you plan your next steps—you don’t have to wait until your next dental cleaning in Decatur to address concerns like pain, broken teeth, or chronic swelling.

Dental Cleaning in Decatur | Greater Decatur Dental

The Foundation of Oral Health

Routine dental cleaning in Decatur plays a vital role in maintaining your oral health, not just your teeth’s appearance. At Greater Decatur Dental, we focus on preventing problems before they get serious, starting by gently removing plaque and tartar to keep your smile healthy.

Benefits of Dental Cleanings

Prevent Gum Disease

Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar build-up, reducing the risk of gum disease, cavities, and other oral health complications.

Brighten Your Smile

Going beyond at-home brushing, a professional cleaning can reduce the appearance of stains from drinks, foods, and smoking.

Freshen Your Breath

Build-up can cause chronic bad breath, no matter how diligently you brush and floss, requiring professional care to clean hard-to-reach areas.

Our Process for Dental Cleanings

Every dental cleaning in Decatur includes gentle plaque removal and polishing, which takes about an hour. Your dentist will create a personalized oral hygiene plan to empower you with the tools to keep your smile protected until your next visit. Our compassionate team makes every visit stress-free and educational, for toddlers and adults alike.

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Greater Decatur’s Mission

About Us

Dr. Meyer, Dr. Kimberly Clough, and the entire Greater Decatur Dental team have worked to create a space where you can feel at ease during your cleaning.

About Greater Decatur

What Clients Have to Say…

Love this place so much. I waited way too long to get back to the dentist because of anxiety around dental work. They were so kind and understanding. Can’t recommend them enough!

Jennifer M.
I've been a patient of Dr. Meyers for more than 10 years and she and her staff are excellent in every way. They truly go the extra mile to take care of…

Steve C.

I've been a patient of Dr. Meyers for more than 10 years and she and her staff are excellent in every way. They truly go the extra mile to take care of their patients. I highly recommend Dr. Meyer as a top Atlanta Dentist to anyone wanting top notch dental care.

Steve C.
Dr. Meyer and her entire staff are very skilled, efficient, and most of all…kind. Patients are not “just another number” in this practice — so refreshing! Dr. Meyer is extremely talented, performing…

Ashley D.

Dr. Meyer and her entire staff are very skilled, efficient, and most of all…kind. Patients are not “just another number” in this practice — so refreshing! Dr. Meyer is extremely talented, performing even the most complicated procedures with such ease and gentleness. She is always checking in with you, making sure you are comfortable and well informed every step of the of the way. Her practice boasts the latest and greatest technology available, and I am very grateful to be in such adept hands! Highly recommend her practice.

Ashley D.
Always the best experience!! I've been going there 20+ years, which should tell you something:) Whether it's getting a cleaning with Vicky, getting a crown or being fitted for a night guard…

Neil W.

Always the best experience!! I've been going there 20+ years, which should tell you something:) Whether it's getting a cleaning with Vicky, getting a crown or being fitted for a night guard with Dr. Meyer and her highly professional staff or catching up at the check out counter with Debbie and the rest of the crew, it's always great! They are the most competent, kind and wonderful people you could ever hope to meet.

Neil W.
I have been with Dr Brittnay Meyer for the past 8-10 years and feel she does great work. "Best at numbing and relaxing me that Ive ever had". She has great staff…

Nanci S.

I have been with Dr Brittnay Meyer for the past 8-10 years and feel she does great work. "Best at numbing and relaxing me that Ive ever had". She has great staff and has taken great care of my family.

Nanci S.
Dr Meyer and staff are excellent. They are professional as well as being compassionate & personable. It is gratifying to know I will always get the best care possible in a genial…

Linda C.

Dr Meyer and staff are excellent. They are professional as well as being compassionate & personable. It is gratifying to know I will always get the best care possible in a genial atmosphere. I am blessed to be one of their patients.

Linda C.
I had an amazing experience at Greater Decatur Dental, and I would rate it a solid 10/10! From the moment I scheduled my appointment to getting checked in and receiving treatment, everything…

Callista M.

I had an amazing experience at Greater Decatur Dental, and I would rate it a solid 10/10! From the moment I scheduled my appointment to getting checked in and receiving treatment, everything was seamless. After a difficult experience at my previous dentist, Greater Decatur Dental truly made me feel welcome and at ease. A special shoutout to Vicky, my hygienist—she was absolutely wonderful! Not only was she incredibly knowledgeable, but she also made sure I was comfortable every step of the way. Dr. Clough was equally fantastic, taking the time to address all my concerns and providing thoughtful, professional care. I genuinely recommend Greater Decatur Dental to anyone looking for a friendly, knowledgeable, and welcoming dental team. They’ve earned my trust, and I’m so glad I found them!

Callista M.
Great group of professionals! I received my cleaning promptly and with great care and friendliness. My hygienist was outstanding and had my teeth looking amazing by the time I finished! Easy access…

Matthew T.

Great group of professionals! I received my cleaning promptly and with great care and friendliness. My hygienist was outstanding and had my teeth looking amazing by the time I finished! Easy access and parking and very clean and organized office as well. This was my first time and I’ll be going back for sure. 🙌

Matthew T.
I am a 52-year-old female who has struggled with snoring for most of my adult life. I heard about NIGHTLASE and found Dr. Ayer as a provider who has been trained in…

Anjanette B.

I am a 52-year-old female who has struggled with snoring for most of my adult life. I heard about NIGHTLASE and found Dr. Ayer as a provider who has been trained in this. These are my SNORELAB results after only 5 treatments! It works! My husband no longer complains about me waking him up at night, and I feel more rested and alert in the morning than I have in years!

Anjanette B.
I don’t know how you can improve. Everyone is always very nice, friendly, and professional. When I go to my cleanings, etc., I feel as though I am among family members. Debbie,…

Magdalene S.

I don’t know how you can improve. Everyone is always very nice, friendly, and professional. When I go to my cleanings, etc., I feel as though I am among family members. Debbie, Terri, Dr. Meyer, everyone makes me feel comfortable and welcome no matter the reason for my visit. Terri makes sure I have samples of the recommended toothbrushes, floss, and toothpaste, etc. that is best for me. Terri does a wonderful job taking care of my dental needs as a Hygentist and makes sure I understand everything about the progress and changes in dental care. She helps me feel comfortable and even when taking the dreaded X-rays. 🤓 (When shopping in a store, there are so many choices it’s hard to know otherwise what is best for me. I appreciate Terri’s advice.) Between her and Dr. Meyer I always feel better knowing g what is going on with my teeth and what I need to do to take care of my teeth, gums, etc. Dr. Meyer, and her staff, keep up with the latest in dental care and wellness care. I feel I am getting the best care possible with her, Terri, and her staff. Debbie and her staff take care of my insurance needs and paperwork, a topic I am totally lost on. I feel very blessed have found Dr. Grant and now Dr. Meyer. Before moving to Atlanta, I had 4 different dentists. I know I will always be able to go to Dr. Meyer, no matter because regardless of time the strong foundation Dr. Grant started in dental care will continue with Dr. Meyer and her colleagues in the future. It’s kind of cool going to an all women’s dental group. Dr. Meyer is always looking to the future of her patients with her group bringing in Dr. Clough and other staff members when needed. Thank you Dr. Meyer! Dr. Grant can be very proud of the legacy you have continued.

Magdalene S.