Maintaining Oral Health with Regular Dental Care
Regular dental cleanings and checkups are vital for maintaining overall oral health, encompassing not just your teeth, but also your gums and the entire interior of your mouth. These cleanings eradicate plaque, tartar, and bacteria that contribute to tooth decay, gum disease, and chronic bad breath. Dental hygienists can access areas that are difficult to reach through routine brushing and flossing at home. Additionally, a comprehensive cleaning and examination allow the hygienist and dentist to monitor your oral health and identify potential issues early, potentially saving you from pain and costly treatments later.
Regular cleanings also enhance the natural whiteness and brightness of your teeth, eliminating the need for bleaching treatments.
- Remove plaque, a sticky bacterial film that corrodes enamel
- Clear tartar accumulation, which is hardened plaque that can lead to gum disease
- Eliminate stains from coffee, tea, or other substances
- Check for signs of receding gums, chipped or broken teeth, and other indicators of oral diseases or infections
These sessions help:
What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning
Gum Health Check
Gum health is crucial yet often overlooked. Gums support your teeth and enhance your smile. During your visit, we’ll thoroughly examine your tongue, gums, teeth, and all other areas of your mouth, with particular attention to the gum line. This is to ensure your entire mouth is healthy and free from any signs of inflammation or potential gum disease. We’ll gently remind you about the importance of flossing, without being too harsh.
Plaque and Tartar Removal
Plaque, a soft and sticky film, continuously forms on your teeth. Without regular and thorough brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, it can harden into tartar, a darker substance that accumulates in hard-to-clean areas, especially along the gumline. Our hygienist will use specialized tools to meticulously remove plaque and tartar, even from the most challenging places. After removing these deposits, we’ll polish your teeth to remove any stains, leaving your smile bright and clean.
Dental Examination
Following the cleaning, it’s the ideal time for a comprehensive dental exam. Your dentist will review your dental records and x-rays, focusing on any areas of concern or unusual patterns. This examination may lead to recommendations for further treatment or advice on how to prevent or reverse tooth decay, inflammation, or gum disease. We’re here to answer any questions you might have or discuss any symptoms like discomfort, sensitivity, or dental pain you’ve experienced.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ideally, you should have your teeth professionally cleaned every six months. This frequency can help prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar, which are leading causes of gum disease and tooth decay. However, depending on your dental health, your dentist might recommend a different schedule.
A regular cleaning, or prophylaxis, focuses on the surfaces of the teeth and the space between teeth and gums, preventing the common dental issues. A deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is more intensive and is recommended when there is significant tartar buildup or evidence of gum disease. It involves cleaning the part of the tooth below the gum line.
Yes, teeth cleaning can cause temporary sensitivity, especially if you already have sensitive teeth. However, your hygienist can use techniques and materials that minimize discomfort. Be sure to mention your sensitivity before starting the procedure.
Yes, teeth cleaning is safe and highly recommended during pregnancy. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase the risk of developing gum disease, which can affect the health of the developing baby. It’s important to inform your dentist about your pregnancy so they can take any necessary precautions.
After a teeth cleaning, it’s best to avoid eating or drinking anything highly pigmented, acidic, or extremely hot or cold for a few hours to prevent sensitivity and staining. Stick to soft foods and clear liquids if possible. Resume your normal oral hygiene routine, but be gentle initially if your gums are tender.
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