Cleanings & exams
Thorough, gentle hygiene visits with our long-time hygienists, paired with an exam from Dr. Christopher B. Wong, so small issues stay small.
Clinically reviewed by Dr. Christopher B. Wong · Updated
Is this right for you?
In plain language
A professional cleaning removes the plaque, hardened tartar, and surface stains that brushing misses. Even if you brush and floss consistently, bacteria collect under the gumline, and that buildup is what leads to cavities, gum inflammation, and bad breath.
At our Palo Alto practice every cleaning is paired with an exam from Dr. Wong, so you leave knowing exactly what’s going on while small issues are still simple to treat.
Your visit, step by step
A routine cleaning is for healthy gums; a deep cleaning treats gum infection. We’ll tell you which is appropriate after your exam.
Most visits
When gums need it
Sometimes we see inflammation or deeper plaque buildup that a routine cleaning can’t fully remove. A deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, gently clears bacteria from below the gumline and smooths the root surfaces so your gums can heal and reattach.
We’ll explain what we’re seeing, how many visits it may take, and how we’ll keep you comfortable. The goal is to stabilize gum health early so you can return to simple maintenance visits and avoid long-term periodontal issues.
We’re a family-friendly practice and see many patients from the same household. We keep your schedule simple and your care predictable, with cleaning intervals based on each person’s risk factors. Kids are welcome too: see children’s dentistry.
Interested in whitening or Invisalign? Cleanings are the best place to start: a clean, healthy foundation helps cosmetic results look better and last longer.
Cost, insurance & payment
Cleanings and exams are preventive care, which most PPO plans cover. We verify your benefits first, so you know your portion up front.
We’re out-of-network, but most PPO plans still pay a share of your care here. Deep cleaning is often covered differently from a routine cleaning. Send us your plan and we’ll check your benefits and explain your portion before treatment.
Ask about our in-house dental plan, which offers savings on preventive care and treatment.
We accept Visa, MasterCard, and FSA/HSA funds.
Patient reviews
“The cleanings here with Helen are outstanding. Always thorough, knowledgeable, and friendly.”
“High skill level, modern tools, helpful guidance and a friendly demeanor. An excellent experience for cleanings and fillings. Strong recommend.”
“Been coming for a decade. Never had a cavity. Helen is the best hygienist!”
Your care team
Dentist & practice owner
Our registered dental hygienists handle your cleaning. Dr. Wong does your exam, explains what he sees in plain language, and recommends treatment only when it’s needed.
Registered Dental Hygienist
Caring for patients here since 2008
Registered Dental Hygienist
More than 15 years of dental hygiene
Registered Dental Hygienist
Honors graduate, Carrington College
Questions
Quick answers about frequency, comfort, and deep cleaning.
Most patients do best with cleanings every six months. If you have gum disease, implants, or frequent cavities, we may recommend visits every 3–4 months.
Cleanings are usually comfortable. If you have sensitivity or inflamed gums, we’ll use a gentle approach and can add topical numbing as needed.
We remove plaque and tartar, polish stains, floss, and review home care. You’ll also receive a thorough exam and screening for cavities and gum issues.
Yes. Removing bacteria and tartar from below the gumline is one of the most effective ways to reduce chronic bad breath.
A routine cleaning is for healthy gums. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) treats gum infection. We’ll tell you which is appropriate after your exam.
Keep exploring
Other preventive and restorative care at our Palo Alto office.
Patients visit our Cambridge Avenue office from Menlo Park, Stanford, Mountain View and Los Altos; see all the areas we serve.
Your next visit
Request a visit online in about a minute, or call the front desk. We’ll check your benefits first and find a time that fits your week.