Good dental hygiene is essential for maintaining a healthy mouth. Regular dental cleanings are an important part of this process that can help prevent serious problems from arising. In this article, we will discuss why regular dental cleaning is important and how it can benefit your dental health. We will also provide some tips on how to ensure you get the most out of your checkups. By taking these steps, you can keep your teeth and gums in great shape and help avoid costly procedures down the road.
Professional Teeth Cleaning
Professional teeth cleaning, also known as dental prophylaxis, is a procedure performed by a dentist or hygienist to remove plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of the teeth. It is usually done in combination with a routine exam to assess any potential oral health issues. Professional teeth cleaning involves scraping away hard deposits that have accumulated on the teeth and along the gum line. It also involves polishing the teeth to remove any surface stains.
What To Expect During The Procedure
1. Physical Examination
During your appointment, the dentist will look for signs of gum disease, tooth decay, cavities, oral infections, and other oral health issues. The dentist may also use X-rays to detect any potential problems beneath the surface of the teeth or gums. The physical exam is an important part of the procedure as it will allow the dentist to identify any areas that require special attention.
2. Teeth Cleaning
During the teeth cleaning portion of the appointment, the dentist or hygienist will use specialized dental instruments to remove plaque and tartar from the surface of the teeth. This procedure can be done using either manual tools or a power-driven scaler. The dentist may also use an ultrasonic device to break up large deposits that are difficult to remove with manual tools.
3. Polishing
Once all deposits have been removed, the dentist will use a brush to polish your teeth with gritty toothpaste or finish with a high-speed polisher for a smooth surface. This step helps remove any remaining stains and make your teeth feel smooth.
4. Fluoride Treatment
During this process, a special fluoride gel is applied to the teeth with a cotton swab or brush. This helps strengthen the enamel on your teeth and makes them more resistant to decay-causing bacteria.
The Importance of Professional Dental Cleanings
1. Freshen Your Breath
Bad breath, or halitosis, is caused by an accumulation of bacteria in the mouth. Removing these deposits can help restore your breath to its natural freshness. In addition, professional teeth cleaning eliminates bacteria and other debris from deep within the gums, providing long-term relief from bad breath.
2. Brighten Your Smile
Professional cleanings remove hard deposits that have accumulated on the surface of the teeth, which can lead to discoloration over time. Removing these deposits can help restore your teeth to their natural brightness and color. Additionally, a professional polish helps remove any surface stains from food and drinks that may have occurred over time.
3. Reduce the Risk of Cavities
Plaque and tartar buildup contains bacteria that produce acid, which can erode the enamel on the surface of the teeth and lead to tooth decay. By removing this buildup during a routine teeth cleaning, you can help keep your teeth healthy and free from decay.
4. Prevent Gum Disease
Gum disease is an infection in the gums that can lead to tooth loss, bad breath, and other serious health concerns. Regular teeth cleaning helps to prevent gum disease by removing plaque and bacteria from the surface of the teeth and along the gum line.
5. Prevent Tooth Loss
Regular teeth cleanings are important for preventing tooth loss. Tartar buildup can cause the gum tissue to become inflamed and pull away from the teeth, leading to periodontal disease. If left untreated, this can eventually result in tooth loss.
6. Early Detection of Oral Problems
During a routine exam, your dentist will look for signs of cavities, periodontal disease, oral cancer, and other dental issues. Catching these problems early is important in preventing further damage to your teeth and gums. By regularly attending dental cleaning appointments and exams, you are helping your dentist spot any potential problems before they become bigger issues down the road.
Impact of Skipping Regular Cleanings on Your Oral Health
When tartar and plaque buildup are allowed to accumulate, it becomes harder to remove. This buildup can lead to tooth decay, bad breath, and other serious problems if left unchecked. In addition, the longer you go without professional teeth cleaning, the more likely it is that serious health issues will develop. For these reasons, it is important to attend routine teeth cleanings in order to maintain your oral health.
How Often Should You Have Your Teeth Cleaned?
It is generally recommended that adults have their teeth professionally cleaned every six months. For people with certain medical conditions, certain medications, or a higher risk of periodontal disease, more frequent cleanings may be recommended. The best way to determine your individual cleaning schedule is to consult with your dentist or hygienist.
Other Dental Care Tips For Maintaining a Healthy Mouth
- Practice a Good Oral Hygiene Routine This includes brushing your teeth twice a day with toothpaste containing fluoride, flossing regularly, avoiding sugary foods and drinks, and using an antimicrobial mouthwash. These habits will help keep your teeth clean and free of bacteria between appointments.
- Quit Smoking: Smoking can stain the teeth, increase your risk of gum disease, and even cause oral cancer. If you are a smoker, it is important to quit in order to maintain your dental health.
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly: As mentioned, it is recommended to visit your dentist for a routine cleaning and dental checkup every six months. This gives your dentist an opportunity to monitor the condition of your teeth and gums and spot any potential problems early on.
Visit Azure Dental Today!
Our dental team strives to provide the highest quality of care for our patients. We are experienced in providing preventive services, dental exams, and other treatments to help maintain your oral health. If you are looking for a reliable dentist in the area, contact our dental care team today to schedule an appointment!