If it’s been a year or longer since you’ve seen a dentist, chances are that plaque and tartar have had a chance to build up on the surface of your teeth and along your gums. In fact, it’s recommended to have a professional dental cleaning every 6 months! Many insurance plans cover two dental cleanings per year with no out-of-pocket cost to you, so why not take advantage of using your benefits to improve your oral health. Here are 5 reasons why you need a professional dental cleaning every 6 months.
1. Daily brushing at home doesn’t substitute for a professional dental cleaning
A toothbrush simply doesn’t remove all of the plaque and tartar that a professional dental cleaning can, even if plaque buildup is not visible. Keep in mind that even the most meticulous brushing and flossing won’t remove all of the natural plaque buildup between the teeth, around the base of the teeth, and around and under the gums.
2. You don’t always see buildup
Plaque is a sticky film that is not always visible to the naked eye, which eventually hardens on the surfaces of the teeth in the form of tartar (also known as calculus). Hard-to-reach areas between the teeth, tooth crevices and on the back or sides of the teeth require a professional cleaning.
3. You probably aren’t brushing and flossing as well as you think
Unfortunately many people don’t practice dental care 100%. Most common dental care mistakes include skipping flossing, not brushing long enough or skipping brushing all together. Even with the best at-home dental care, professional cleanings are important for maintaining dental health.
4. Tartar can only be removed professionally
Hardened tartar is often most visible around the gum line or base of the teeth, on the backs of the teeth, in the crevices between teeth, and on the front surfaces of the teeth. Once tartar has formed on the teeth a dentist must use special tools to remove the buildup. If it’s been some time since your last dental cleaning or there is a great amount of tartar buildup the dentist will likely recommend a deep cleaning.
5. Dental cleaning reduces risk of dental disease and infection
Dental cleanings promote better oral health by reducing the risk of gingivitis, which is the beginning stage of gum disease. Poor oral health has been linked to many serious illnesses throughout the body. The good news is that gum disease and tooth decay are preventable with good oral care.
What Happens During Professional Teeth Cleaning?
1. A physical examination
A dental hygienist administers the majority of tooth cleanings. Your entire mouth is physically examined before the cleaning procedure starts.
A small mirror is used by the dental hygienist to inspect the area around your teeth and gums for any indications of gingivitis (inflamed gums) or other potential issues.
The dental hygienist may call the dentist if they notice any serious issues to confirm that it is okay to move forward.
2. Eliminating tartar and plaque
The dental hygienist uses a scaler to remove plaque and tartar from between your teeth and around your gum line while using the tiny mirror as a reference. There will be some scraping, but that’s typical. They’ll require extra time to scrape a certain area of your mouth as there is more tartar there. Plaque cannot accumulate and become tartar without being removed by brushing and flossing. Tartar may only be removed at your dentist’s office once it has formed. So the lesson is to brush and floss more frequently if this is your least favorite aspect of the teeth-cleaning procedure.
3. Cleaning with gritty toothpaste
Your teeth will be thoroughly clean of tartar before the hygienist uses a powerful electric brush that grinds on your teeth. Although it may seem frightening, it’s a terrific technique to deep clean and gets rid of any tartar that the scaler left behind.
Although you can frequently choose between flavors, professional cleanings utilize a toothpaste that tastes and smells like conventional toothpaste. It is considered safe to polish your teeth twice a year if it is done by a professional. However, you shouldn’t be as rough with your teeth at home because doing so will erode the enamel.
4. Skillful flossing
Nothing compares to a professional flossing session. Your dental hygienist can access the spaces in between your teeth and find any potential problem areas where your gums can bleed.
Even though flossing your teeth at home may seem unnecessary, having a professional do so also removes any toothpaste or plaque that may have remained after a previous cleaning.
5. Rinsing
You then rinse your mouth . You will typically receive a fluoride-containing rinse from your dental hygienist.
6. Treatment with fluoride
Fluoride treatment comes as the last cleansing step. This procedure acts as a shield to protect your teeth from cavities for a while after the treatment.
Your dental hygienist might inquire as to your favorite flavor. The foamy gel (or occasionally a gooey substance) will then be put into a mouthpiece that fits over your teeth. Usually, you should leave it on your teeth for a minute. Fluoride varnish is then applied. Saliva will cause the fluoride varnish to harden, allowing you to eat and drink right away.
What to Do in Between Dental Cleanings
Every dental patient is responsible for providing for their own oral health in order to maintain a healthy mouth. Make sure to properly clean your teeth at least twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Additionally, floss your teeth at least once every day. Additionally, using a high-quality mouthwash can help maintain fresh breath and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
Why Dental Cleanings are Necessary
Dental cleanings are essential because they ensure your gums and teeth are in good health. They are a crucial component of one’s entire dental care regimen since they aid in removing plaque and tartar buildup, which can cause issues with the mouth including tooth decay. Additionally, there is a link between one’s general health and oral health.
It is possible for someone to experience poor general health, such as heart disease or diabetes, if their teeth and gums are not in good condition. Cleanings can also assist in removing any ugly stains from the teeth, making one feel confident in flashing their smile.
Are you ready to book a professional dental cleaning near you? Feel free to book today!
