DEntal Cleaning

A routine dental cleaning, also known as a prophylactic cleaning, is a professional cleaning performed by a dentist or dental hygienist to remove plaque, tartar (hardened plaque), and stains from the teeth. It's a key part of preventive dental care and typically takes place every 6 to 12 months, depending on your oral health.

Here’s a breakdown of what happens during a routine dental cleaning and why it’s important:

What Happens During a Routine Dental Cleaning:

1. Physical Examination: The dentist or hygienist will first examine your mouth for signs of gum disease, cavities, or other oral health issues.

2. Plaque and Tartar Removal: Using specialized tools, the dental hygienist will scrape away plaque and tartar from your teeth, especially along the gumline. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Tartar is the hardened version of plaque that can only be removed professionally.

3. Polishing: After removing plaque and tartar, your teeth will be polished using a gritty paste to remove surface stains and smooth the enamel.

4. Flossing: Your hygienist will floss between your teeth to remove any remaining plaque or debris that the cleaning tools might have missed.

5. Fluoride Treatment (Optional): In some cases, a fluoride treatment may be applied to help strengthen tooth enamel and protect against cavities.

Why a Routine Dental Cleaning Is Important:

1. Prevents Tooth Decay: Removing plaque and tartar helps prevent cavities from forming. Plaque produces acids that can break down tooth enamel and lead to tooth decay.

2. Prevents Gum Disease: Regular cleanings help prevent gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis). Plaque and tartar can irritate the gums, causing them to become inflamed, bleed, and recede. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss.

3. Maintains Fresh Breath: Routine cleaning helps remove the bacteria and food particles that contribute to bad breath (halitosis).

4. Early Detection of Problems: During a cleaning, the dentist or hygienist will often notice early signs of dental problems, such as cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer, allowing for early intervention and treatment.

5. Improves Overall Health: Oral health is closely linked to overall health. Poor oral hygiene has been associated with various health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Regular dental cleanings help reduce the risk of these problems.

6. Maintains a Bright Smile: Professional cleanings remove surface stains caused by food, drinks (like coffee or tea), and tobacco use, helping maintain a brighter, more attractive smile.

7. Saves Money: Preventive care through routine cleanings is often less expensive than treating dental problems that arise from poor oral hygiene.

In short, routine dental cleanings are a vital part of maintaining good oral health and preventing dental issues. It’s one of the simplest and most effective ways to ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy.