One important aspect of good oral hygiene is a professional cleaning. A professional teeth cleaning works by removing plaque, tartar, and stains that have accumulated on the teeth over time. While routine brushing and flossing at home are crucial, they do not fully eliminate plaque and tartar. Routine visits to the dentist for a professional cleaning are vital in maintaining good oral hygiene. For most patients, dentists suggest that patients visit the dentist every 6 months to a year for a professional cleaning and exam. This also aids in lowering the risk of gum disease and other issues.
Teeth Cleaning
A dental cleaning works by removing plaque and tartar, which have slowly built up on the teeth. Plaque is the sticky, soft film that contains bacteria that, over time, can cause gum disease and tooth decay. Tarter is a hard deposit that forms on the teeth and cannot be removed at home with regular brushing and flossing. Specialized instruments are used by dentists to remove debris without damaging the teeth.
Instruments
Patients can rest assured that dental instruments are safe and clean. They are thoroughly disinfected and sterilized prior to use. Dental mirrors give dental professionals access and visibility in hard-to-see areas. The mirror also aids in observing the teeth and gums. The dentist will evaluate for signs of swelling, decay, and other issues. An ultrasonic instrument uses vibrations and mists of cool water to loosen and wash away any debris that requires removal.
Additional hand-held instruments called curettes and scalers will also smooth and clean the tooth’s surface. To ensure all tartar is thoroughly removed, each individual tooth is cleaned. Following the cleaning, the teeth are then polished with a device that contains a soft rubber cup. A gritty solution called prophylaxis paste is placed on the rubber cup and creates a smooth, shiny surface. Fluoride may also be applied if the patient opts for this. Fluoride works by strengthening the teeth and protecting them from the accumulation and harm of plaque and tartar.
Pain
In most cases, a routine teeth cleaning should not cause any pain. Some patients find the cleaning to be slightly awkward, or they may dislike the sounds associated with the cleaning. The cool mist from water, soft vibrations, and pressure used to scrape plaque and tartar away should not cause significant discomfort or pain. Patients should let their dentist and hygienist know if they experience pain during their cleaning. The dental team can often make adjustments or modifications to make patients more comfortable.
Duration
For most patients, a dental teeth cleaning will last between 30 and 60 minutes. Patients will be in a reclined position in a comfortable dental chair and often receive sunglasses to protect their eyes from the harsh lights. Following the completion of the professional cleaning, patients often notice that their teeth are smoother, feel fresher, and are healthier. Professional teeth cleaning is one of the primary methods used to prevent and treat oral health issues.
Call the office today to schedule your professional teeth cleaning. Our team looks forward to meeting with you and helping you maintain good oral health. We are happy to answer any questions you have regarding the cleaning procedure, duration, and cost.