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://russikoffdentistry.com or call Russikoff Family Dentistry at (818) 483-9078
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Cleaning and Examinations in Northridge, CA.
Dental cleaning is a huge part of routine check-ups. The procedure involves using a scaler to scrape off tartar and plaque deposits from teeth surfaces. Plaque is the sticky film that builds up on teeth, and it hardens into tartar when left on teeth surfaces for a few days. Both make you more vulnerable to…
A dental cleaning is a simple and non-invasive dental procedure in which plaque and tartar accumulation is scaled away and the teeth and gum line are thoroughly cleaned and polished. There are several notable benefits of this preventive dental procedure that patients should understand. The benefits of dental cleaning include the ability to brighten and clean…
Getting a dental cleaning is an essential part of maintaining good oral health. However, it can be difficult to know how often to get one done. Most general dentists recommend dental cleanings twice a year, but there are certain signs to be aware of that can indicate a need for them more frequently. Outlined below are…
Dental exams are an important part of visiting a general dentist. The examination portion of the appointment is crucial in catching any warning signs that may indicate problems, such as cavities or gum disease. In particular, gum disease can be difficult to notice as it may present itself without any major warning signs. With that being…
Considering implant supported dentures? These prosthetics are one of the most common tooth replacement options as they offer a hybrid approach, combining dentures with dental implants. Keep reading to find out more! Outlined below are a few commonly asked questions and answers about implant supported dentures. It can be helpful to review these when looking into…
You know that you need a smile makeover when you are unhappy with your smile. Getting this makeover usually results in dramatic improvements. You may have denied yourself a dental treatment like this before, but maybe now is the right time to get one. If you are wondering whether it is time for you to…