A dental cleaning is a preventative procedure to improve your oral health, which is directly linked to your overall bodily health. It is done to remove tartar (mineralized plaque), check on gum health, take X-Rays and address cavities or other tooth decay issues that have accumulated over time. Tartar is a hard substance that can only be removed with special instruments. If left untreated, tartar can lead to gum disease and tooth decay.
A dental cleaning usually takes about 30 minutes. The procedure is usually done by a dental hygienist. First, the teeth are scaled with special instruments to remove the tartar. Then, the teeth are polished with a gritty toothpaste to remove any remaining plaque and to make them smoother so that it is more difficult for plaque to accumulate in the future. Finally, the teeth are flossed.
If you have gum disease, your dentist may recommend a more extensive cleaning called root planing and scaling. This procedure is done to remove tartar from below the gum line and to smooth the roots of the teeth to help prevent future tartar buildup. Root planing and scaling usually takes two or more visits to the dentist.
After a dental cleaning, your teeth should feel smooth and clean. You may also notice that your breath smells fresher. It is important to brush and floss your teeth every day to remove plaque and prevent tartar from forming. You should also see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
What is a dental cleaning?
A dental cleaning is a professional teeth cleaning that is performed by a dentist or dental hygienist. This type of preventative procedure is also called prophylaxis, and it involves the removal of tartar, plaque, and stains from the teeth. A dental cleaning can help to prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
What are the benefits of a dental cleaning?
A dental cleaning is an important part of oral hygiene. The benefits of a dental cleaning include removal of plaque and tartar, prevention of gum disease, and fresher breath. Plaque is a sticky film that forms on teeth, and tartar is hardened plaque. If not removed, plaque and tartar can lead to gum disease. Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can damage the bone supporting the teeth. A dental cleaning can help prevent gum disease by removing plaque and tartar from the teeth. Fresher breath is another benefit of a dental cleaning because it helps remove bacteria that cause bad breath.
How to prepare for a dental cleaning?
If you’re getting ready for a dental cleaning, there are a few things you can do to ensure that the process goes smoothly. First, be sure to brush and floss your teeth thoroughly. This will help speed up the process, and will be something your hygienist appreciates (no one likes stinky breathe!). Second, avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes before the cleaning. This will help prevent any food or drink from getting in the way of the cleaning process. Finally, make sure to listen to your dentist’s instructions and follow them closely – sometimes they may ask you to perform specific instructions before coming in for your cleaning.
What to expect during a dental cleaning?
During a dental cleaning, the dentist or hygienist will use special instruments to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. This may involve mild scraping, but should not cause you any pain. If you experience pain during this procedure, your dentist may look for other issues with your teeth and take X-Rays to help diagnose. The hygienist will also polish your teeth and floss between them. It is recommended that you have a dental cleaning every six months.
How to care for your teeth after a dental cleaning?
If you’ve just had a dental cleaning, congratulations! You’re on your way to having a brighter, healthier smile. But the work doesn’t stop there. To keep your smile looking its best, it’s important to brush and floss regularly and avoid eating or drinking for at least 30 minutes after the cleaning. With just a little bit of care, you can keep your smile shining bright.