Regular professional teeth cleaning are essential for maintaining optimal oral health. While daily brushing and flossing are crucial, they can’t remove all the plaque and tartar that accumulate over time. Professional cleanings help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what you can expect during a professional teeth cleaning at Bright Smile Dental Aesthetics.
1. Initial Examination
What Happens:
Your dental hygienist will begin the appointment with an initial examination of your mouth. Using a small mirror, they will check your teeth and gums for signs of inflammation, plaque buildup, tartar, and any other potential issues like cavities or gum disease.
Why It’s Important:
This step helps the hygienist identify areas that require special attention during the cleaning process. If any serious issues are detected, the hygienist might consult with your dentist to determine if any immediate treatment is needed before proceeding with the cleaning.
2. Plaque and Tartar Removal (Scaling)
What Happens:
The next step involves the removal of plaque and tartar, which are the main culprits behind tooth decay and gum disease. The hygienist will use a scaler, a small, handheld tool, to gently scrape away the hardened deposits from your teeth, especially around the gum line and in between teeth.
Why It’s Important:
Even with diligent brushing and flossing, it’s nearly impossible to remove all the plaque from your teeth. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a professional. Scaling is essential for maintaining healthy gums and preventing periodontal disease.
3. Deep Cleaning with Electric Brush (Polishing)
What Happens:
After scaling, the hygienist will use a high-powered electric toothbrush and a gritty toothpaste to polish your teeth. The toothbrush rotates at a high speed to remove any remaining plaque and to smooth the surface of your teeth.
Why It’s Important:
Polishing not only makes your teeth feel clean and smooth but also helps remove surface stains, leaving your teeth brighter. The gritty texture of the toothpaste used in this step effectively scrubs away minor stains and polishes the enamel.
4. Professional Flossing
What Happens:
Next, the hygienist will floss your teeth professionally. They will reach between every tooth to remove any plaque or toothpaste that might be lingering from the earlier steps. This step also helps the hygienist check for any areas where your gums might bleed, which could indicate potential gum issues.
Why It’s Important:
Even if you floss regularly at home, professional flossing ensures that no debris is left behind. It also reinforces the importance of regular flossing as part of your daily oral hygiene routine.
5. Rinsing
What Happens:
Once your teeth have been thoroughly cleaned, the hygienist will give you a rinse to wash away any remaining debris. This rinse may include a liquid fluoride solution to strengthen your teeth and prevent cavities.
Why It’s Important:
Rinsing helps to remove any leftover particles, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and clean. It also prepares your teeth for the final step in the cleaning process.
6. Fluoride Treatment
What Happens:
The last step of a professional cleaning typically involves a fluoride treatment. The hygienist will apply a fluoride gel or varnish to your teeth using a small brush or tray. You’ll be asked to avoid eating or drinking for about 30 minutes afterward to allow the fluoride to fully absorb.
Why It’s Important:
Fluoride is a powerful agent that helps to strengthen the enamel of your teeth, making them more resistant to decay. This treatment is especially important for protecting your teeth between dental visits.
7. Final Examination and Consultation
What Happens:
After the cleaning, your dentist may come in for a final examination. They will review the hygienist’s findings, examine your teeth and gums, and discuss any areas of concern. They may also provide recommendations for improving your oral hygiene routine or suggest additional treatments if needed.
Why It’s Important:
This final consultation ensures that any potential issues are addressed promptly. It also gives you the opportunity to ask questions about your oral health or any concerns you may have.
Conclusion
Professional teeth cleaning is a vital part of maintaining your oral health. It not only keeps your teeth and gums in top condition but also helps to prevent more serious dental issues from developing. At Bright Smile Dental Aesthetics, we take pride in providing thorough, gentle, and effective cleanings to help our patients achieve and maintain beautiful, healthy smiles. Schedule your next cleaning today and take the next step towards optimal oral health!