A regular dental cleaning is vital for maintaining optimal oral health. While many people understand the importance of these appointments, the specifics of what happens during dental cleanings may remain a bit mysterious.
In this review, we discuss the procedure of a typical dental cleaning, providing insight into the process and highlighting its significance in preventive oral care.
A patient's dental cleaning journey begins with a warm greeting from the dental hygienist or dental assistant. Before the cleaning, they may conduct a brief assessment, checking for any changes in medical history, oral health concerns, or medication updates.
Dental X-rays may be taken to get a comprehensive view of the patient's oral health. X-rays can reveal hidden issues, such as cavities between teeth, bone loss, or impacted wisdom teeth. However, not everyone requires X-rays during every cleaning, and the frequency depends on individual factors and the dentist's recommendation.
The dental professional will conduct a thorough visual examination of the patient's mouth, gums, and teeth. They will look for signs of gum disease, cavities, oral cancer, and other potential concerns. This visual inspection is crucial for identifying issues that may require further attention.
One of the primary goals of a dental cleaning is the removal of plaque and tartar. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on the teeth, and when it hardens, it becomes tartar or calculus. Specialized tools, including a scaler, are used to carefully remove these deposits from the surfaces of the teeth, especially in areas that may be difficult to reach with regular brushing and flossing.
Following plaque and tartar removal, the dental hygienist uses a high-powered electric toothbrush and gritty toothpaste to do a thorough teeth cleaning. This process cleans and polishes the teeth and helps remove any residual plaque or stains.
Flossing is an integral part of a dental cleaning. The dental professional will carefully floss between the teeth to remove any plaque or debris that may be lodged in those tight spaces. This step contributes to preventing cavities and gum disease in areas where a toothbrush may not reach effectively.
Depending on the patient's oral health needs, the dentist may recommend a fluoride treatment. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay. This treatment often entails applying gel, foam, or varnish to the teeth.
Once the cleaning is complete, the dental professional may take the time to discuss their findings with the patient. This could include recommendations for improving their oral hygiene routine, advice on proper brushing and flossing techniques, and insights into any potential issues that they observed during the cleaning.
Based on the cleaning results and any additional findings, the dentist may recommend follow-up treatments, such as fillings, periodontal therapy, or further diagnostic procedures. They will also discuss the recommended frequency for the next dental cleaning, which is typically every six months for those with good oral health.
If it has been more than six months since your last cleaning, do not hesitate to contact us. We can schedule a time for your next cleaning, along with a thorough inspection of your oral health overall.
Get more information here: https://www.arcdentistry.com or call Arc Advanced Dentistry & Cosmetics at (516) 301-9038
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Cleaning and Examinations in Long Beach, NY.
When a child first goes to the dentist for a dental cleaning, there is often anxiety and resistance, which is completely normal. Thankfully, general dentists who work with children are trained to be extra patient and gentle. Additionally, they are able to provide parents with tips that can be helpful in preparing the child for…
Wondering just how beneficial a professional dental cleaning is? Routine dental cleanings help patients avoid dental-related problems by removing hardened plaque and calculus. Most patients need to undergo these cleanings twice a year.Preventive dentistry aims to keep a patient's mouth healthy so they do not have to undergo dental treatments to experience a healthy mouth.…
A dental cleaning is an essential part of maintaining good oral health because it removes buildups of plaque and tartar. Additionally, they keep the teeth and gums appearing healthy and strong. Routine dental cleanings are typically done in a general dentistry setting because general dentists are the main point of contact for ensuring good dental…
Everyone wants strong and healthy teeth, but not everybody wants to book dental appointments regularly. Studies have shown that aside from excellent oral hygiene, regular visits to the dentist for dental cleanings are vital for healthy and beautiful teeth. In this article, we will focus on five reasons to go for regular dental visits. Mouth…
A family dentist serves as the front line of defense for oral health and preventive care. They can see patients from childhood all the way through their lives, allowing for a level of continued care, attention, and personal knowledge that is unmatched among other types of dental offices. If you are considering what kind of…
Seeing a cosmetic dentist can bring dramatic improvements to your smile. The experience can even enhance your oral health. Knowing what to look forward to from this dental care provider can prepare you for your appointment. Here are the things to anticipate from a cosmetic dentist.Visiting a cosmetic dentist for the first time can be…