Professional Teeth Cleaning

From an early age, people are taught about the importance of brushing their teeth after every meal. Parents stress the importance of cleaning the teeth. In addition to brushing the teeth, the importance of flossing is also addressed. When people brush and floss every day, they are helping maintain the health of their teeth and gums.

Gum Disease

The problem is, the environment around a person will work equally as hard against their habits, as the person does to maintain proper oral hygiene.  Bacteria and other materials can still get to the teeth and gums despite the best efforts. Plaque can still build up even when using the best toothpaste and brush. Gum disease can creep in even though you rinse properly. If a person has a routine that causes them to consume a lot of sugary drinks, their teeth will be affected. The solution to this is to go to the dentist on a regular basis to get a professional cleaning.

Professional Cleanings

Dr. Budolfson performing a  professional dental cleaning.The professional cleaning will get to the bacteria and buildup that brushing and flossing cannot handle. There will be some people that wonder why a professional cleaning is better than what they can do at home. The answer to that lies in the skill of the dental technician and the equipment that they have access to. If a person understands the professional cleaning process, they would know why it is so important.

  • Oral Examination – The first thing that is done is a comprehensive oral exam, inspecting the teeth and gums for any damage or signs of disease.
  • Plaque & Tartar Removal – The plaque and tartar that is on the teeth above the gum line will be cleaned using forceps and power cleaning equipment that is similar to brushes.
  • Scaling Below the Gum Line – There are three steps that can be used in this process. They are the root scaling, root planing and subgingival curettage. Curettes are used to remove any plaque, tartar or diseased tissue that are hidden below the gum line.
  • Polishing – This step will help smooth out any small defects in the teeth.
  • Irrigation – Water is used to remove any particles from around the teeth.

 

A professional cleaning should be done at least once a year. That is the recommendation for people that take proper care of their teeth. People that smoke or that may have other bad habits that affect their teeth may want to have their teeth professionally cleaned more often. It is normal for people to have their teeth cleaned twice a year.

Dental Cleaning Procedure

The procedure for a professional cleaning causes only minor discomfort. The teeth will feel a little tingly after the procedure, but there is little or no pain involved in the cleaning process. The amount of time required for a professional cleaning is also minimal. The procedure can be completed in as little as 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the amount of work that is involved.

Professional teeth cleaning is an important part of any health regimen. The health of the teeth and gums can affect the overall health of the body. This simple, fast and easy preventative dental service is one that everyone should take advantage of.