What To Expect During Regular Dental Cleanings

Introduction

  Dental cleanings are one of the most critical aspects of oral hygiene. When paired with daily care, your teeth can stay healthy and clean! Many people may feel anxious or unsure about what happens during a dental cleaning. The purpose of this article is to clarify the process of a dental cleaning! We’ll provide a clear understanding of what to expect and the tools used. Above and beyond that, we’ll discuss the best things to ask your hygienist to make the most out of your visit.  

What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning

 

Initial Examination

Your dental cleaning typically begins with an initial examination. The dentist or hygienist will often use a small mirror to inspect your teeth and gums for any signs of gingivitis, cavities, or other concerns. This examination helps identify areas that require special attention. They will carefully check for signs of plaque and tartar buildup, gum inflammation, and other oral health issues that might not be visible to the untrained eye.  

Removal of Plaque and Tartar

One of the most critical steps in a dental cleaning is the removal of harmful buildup. Even with diligent brushing and flossing, plaque can build up and harden into tartar, which typically only a professional can remove. Using a scaler, the hygienist will scrape off plaque and tartar from your teeth, especially around the gum line and between teeth. This process can feel uncomfortable, but it is essential for preventing cavities and gum disease. Removing tartar not only helps in maintaining oral health but also reduces the risk of other health issues linked to oral bacteria.  

Toothpaste Cleaning

After the scaler has done its job, the next step involves a high-powered electric brush. This brush is used with toothpaste designed for deep cleaning. The hygienist will polish your teeth, removing any remaining plaque. The gritty texture of the toothpaste scrubs teeth and leaves them smooth and shiny. Although abrasive, this step is crucial for removing any residue left from the previous process. The polishing not only makes your teeth look brighter but also creates a smoother surface, making it harder for plaque to build up.  

Intensive Flossing

Following the polishing, the hygienist will floss your teeth. This step goes beyond regular flossing at home by getting deep between your teeth and gums to remove any remaining plaque or toothpaste from earlier steps. Professional flossing also helps identify potential problem areas where your gums might bleed due to inflammation or gum disease. Flossing is great for removing debris and preventing cavities which occur between the teeth.  

Rinsing

Next, you’ll rinse your mouth to remove any debris. The rinse often contains liquid fluoride, which helps strengthen your enamel and clean away any leftover particles. It also ensures that any loosened tartar or plaque is thoroughly washed away, preventing it from settling back on your teeth.  

Fluoride Treatment

The final step in a dental cleaning is often a fluoride treatment. Fluoride helps protect your teeth against cavities by making your enamel more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars in your mouth. The fluoride treatment can come in various forms such as gel, foam, or varnish. The hygienist will apply it to your teeth and leave it on for a few minutes. You might be advised not to eat or drink for a short period afterward to allow the fluoride to fully absorb into your enamel. This treatment provides a protective barrier for your teeth, ensuring greater strength against decay.  

Tools Used During Dental Cleaning

 

Scaler

The scaler is a small, handheld tool with a pointed end used to scrape off plaque and tartar from your teeth. The dentist or hygienist uses it to clean around the gum line and between teeth. There are both manual and ultrasonic scalers; the latter uses vibrations to break up tartar and is often used for deeper cleaning.  

Electric Toothbrush

An electric toothbrush is used for deep cleaning and polishing your teeth. Its rapidly rotating head scrubs away any remaining plaque and tartar, leaving your teeth clean and smooth. The vibrations of the brush help dislodge any particles that may be stuck to the enamel.  

Polishing Paste

The polishing paste used with the electric toothbrush has a gritty texture that helps remove surface stains and polish the enamel. This paste is designed to be abrasive enough to clean effectively without damaging your teeth. It also can remove stains caused by coffee, tea, or tobacco, leaving your teeth looking cleaner.  

Fluoride Gel/Foam/Varnish

Fluoride treatments come in different forms, including gel, foam, and varnish. These treatments are applied to your teeth to strengthen enamel and help prevent cavities. Depending on your oral health needs, the hygienist may choose the type of fluoride application that best suits you.  

Questions to Ask Your Hygienist

 

Oral Hygiene Practices

During your dental cleaning, take the chance to ask your hygienist about the best practices for maintaining oral hygiene at home. Ask for advice on brushing and flossing techniques, as well as any specific recommendations based on your oral health condition. The proper way to brush and floss can make a significant difference in your daily care routine.

Product Recommendations

Your dentist can also provide insight into the best dental products for your needs. Whether you’re looking for toothpaste, mouthwash, or floss, your hygienist can recommend products that will help you maintain optimal oral health. They may suggest products for sensitivity, whitening, or those that are specially formulated for gum health.

Frequency of Cleanings

It’s important to know how often you should schedule dental cleanings. While most people benefit from biannual cleanings, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits if you have specific oral health concerns. Factors like gum disease, cavities, and overall oral hygiene can influence how often you need to visit the dentist.

Signs of Potential Issues

Ask your dentist about signs and symptoms of potential oral health issues to watch out for. Knowing what to look for can help you catch problems early and seek treatment before they become more severe. Early detection of issues like gum disease or cavities can prevent more extensive and costly treatments later on.

Benefits of Regular Dental Cleanings

Prevention of Cavities and Gum Disease

Dental cleanings of course play a role in preventing cavities. By removing plaque and tartar buildup, cleanings help protect your teeth from decay and keep your enamel strong. Additionally, regular cleanings help prevent gum disease by removing bacteria and plaque that can cause inflammation and infection.

Fresher Breath

Bad breath can often be caused by bacteria buildup in the mouth. Because of this, regular dental cleanings help eliminate these bacteria, resulting in fresher breath and a more pleasant smile. Fresh breath not only boosts your confidence but also improves your social interactions.

Overall Health Benefits

Maintaining good oral health is not only needed for your teeth and gums but also for your health overall. Poor gum and tooth hygiene has been linked to various systemic health issues, including heart disease and diabetes. Regular dental cleanings help reduce your risk of these conditions by keeping your mouth healthy. A healthy mouth contributes to the body as a whole!  

Conclusion

Being able to maintain a daily oral hygiene routine is incredibly beneficial for healthy teeth and even your overall well-being. Regular dental cleanings are a crucial component of this routine. By understanding what to expect during a dental cleaning, the tools used, and the importance of asking the right questions, you now have the ability to make the most of your dental visits. Schedule your next dental cleaning today and take a proactive step toward maintaining your oral health!   New Beginnings Dentistry understands that undergoing dental care can be a difficult experience. We are here to provide you with the comfort and high-quality dental care you deserve. Contact us today to learn more!