Nov
The busyness of life can often crowd out some of the essentials of good oral health, specifically routine dental exams and cleanings. After some time, you may wonder if biannual dental visits are even necessary. Dr. Jihae Yang from Our Town Dental in Peterborough, New Hampshire, reassures you they are! The following FAQs explain more about the benefits of professional teeth cleaning.    Â
Dental cleanings are part of preventive dental care, professional services designed to keep your teeth and gums in optimal health. Your dentist or hygienist will use special tools to remove plaque from teeth, particularly in hard-to-reach areas where bacteria can breed. Professional teeth cleaning is also the only way to remove tartar, i.e., hardened plaque, as that’s something brushing can’t do. Â
Absolutely! By eliminating harmful plaque and tartar from your teeth, dental cleanings minimize your risk of decay and gum disease. The longer plaque or tartar remains on your teeth, the more damage it can cause. Plaque that gathers under the gumline of your teeth can cause periodontal disease, a serious gum infection that can eventually lead to tooth loss. Through routine dental cleanings, Dr. Yang can control plaque and tartar buildup to avoid serious dental issues that can derail your smile.
Ideally, you should see Dr. Yang and our team twice a year for an oral exam and professional teeth cleaning. These visits will help you maintain good oral health. If you’re having problems with cavities or gum disease, we’ll need to see you more often to get these issues under control.
If you suffer from dental phobia, the thought of biannual dental visits may sound intimidating. But there’s no cause for concern. Dental cleanings aren’t painful and will make your smile look much better! If you feel discomfort or sensitivity at any time, just let us know. We’ll take steps to make your cleaning easier to endure.
Professional teeth cleaning involves using manual and ultrasonic scalers, curettes, polishers, and other dental tools to remove plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth and around the gumline. We’ll focus on areas where your toothbrush can’t reach, as that’s where bacteria are more likely to breed. Afterward, we’ll floss and polish your teeth, leaving them shiny and smooth.Â
If you’ve been seeing your dentist regularly, a checkup and cleaning can often be completed within an hour. If we take x-rays or apply fluoride to your teeth, more time is needed. Your cleaning may also take longer if there’s excessive plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth.
Peterborough, NH, residents can visit Our Town Dental for routine exams and cleanings. Call Dr. Jihae Yang at (603) 567-4955 to schedule your appointment today.
Dr. Jihae Yang is a highly skilled dentist with a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Toronto, and advanced training through the Advanced Education in General Dentistry Residency at the Eastman Institute for Oral Health. Dr. Yang is well recognized for her expertise in esthetic dentistry, and has demonstrated exceptional proficiency in veneer treatments and digital dentistry. Dr. Yang remains at the forefront of dental innovation, actively engaging in continuing education on Invisalign, implant, and esthetic dentistry. As a member of the Seattle Study Club and the NH Study Club for Excellence in Dentistry, she is committed to delivering top-tier, patient-focused care.
Dr. Alicia Gittleman is a dedicated and compassionate dentist providing expert, patient-centered care at Our Town Dental in Peterborough, NH. She earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) from the University of Connecticut School of Dental Medicine and completed advanced clinical training through a General Practice Residency at Danbury Hospital. With over a decade of experience, she specializes in restorative dentistry, crowns, bridges, dentures, extractions, periodontal treatments, laser therapy (LANAP), and clear aligner orthodontics.
Known for her gentle approach, Dr. Gittleman is especially skilled in treating children and patients with dental anxiety, ensuring a comfortable and positive experience. She takes the time to build trust and create personalized treatment plans, helping patients achieve healthy, confident smiles with high-quality, comprehensive care.

