Dental Cleaning
What is dental cleaning?
Dental cleaning is a preventative procedure performed by dentists or dental hygienists to maintain or achieve optimum oral health. In a dental cleaning procedure, the dentist aims to remove the dental plaque and tartar that have accumulated on the teeth to protect them from cavities or dental caries as well as other tooth and gum problems.
Why the problem?
Plaque and bacteria accumulate when these areas remain ignored for a long time and may cause cavities, infections, and gum disease.
A pediatric dentist has the tools to clean hard-to-reach areas in your child’s mouth without making them uncomfortable.
How to avoid the problem
Plaque and bacteria accumulate when these areas remain ignored for a long time and may cause cavities, infections, plaque and bacteria accumulate when these areas remain ignored for a long time and may cause cavities, infections, and gum disease.
- They are clear or nearly invisible, which means they are barely noticeable when worn.
- They are removable, making them convenient. Because Invisalign wearers can remove the clear aligners when eating, brushing, and flossing their teeth, they are an extremely convenient braces option.
- Less chance of any tooth discoloration. As it is easily removable it is to maintain proper oral hygiene and eating, so there is less possibility of food stuck between teeth and tooth discoloration.
- Fewer dental appointments are needed when someone chooses Invisalign clear aligners to straighten their teeth, making this option particularly beneficial for those who are very busy.
Why you should do the procedure
Your dental hygienist can remove most of the stains that dull and discolor your teeth, so you'll be left with a brighter, whiter smile.
Having your teeth cleaned can prevent gum disease, which leads to early tooth loss.
A strong link exists between cardiovascular disease and gum disease. Because getting your teeth cleaned twice a year helps prevent gum disease,
During a professional dental cleaning, it’s easy for your dentist to detect early signs of problems such as broken fillings and fractures.
Many dental plans cover cleanings, and you’ll save money on dental expenses in the long run by taking advantage of your policy.
If your dentist finds any serious problems during a teeth cleaning or exam, the office can help you make financial arrangements to cover the necessary procedures.
Who needs tooth cleaning the most?
- Smokers
- Diabetics
- Under significant stress
- Taking medication that causes dry mouth
- Affected by HIV/AIDS or cancer
- Experiencing orthodontic issues
- Pregnant
- Those who have a history of gum disease or take oral contraceptives.
Outcome Of dental cleaning
There are three key health benefits to attending routine dental cleanings
- The maintenance of oral health
- The prevention of oral diseases
- Early detection of oral diseases and infections
Pros and Cons of the procedure
Pros of dental cleaning
Stops gum disease
Flights bad breath
Protects roots of teeth
Consof dental cleaning
Slight pain and sensitivity
Can cause gum recession
Risk of infection after the procedure
In very rare cases, a risk of nerve damage
What Are theBenefits of dental cleaning
Here is a breakdown of the primary benefits of wearing Invisalign braces:
Prevent cavities
he whitish film that builds up on your teeth is called plaque and is the leading cause of tooth decay. This acidic substance eats away at the tooth enamel and, if left unattended, can lead to cavities.
Stop tooth loss
Gum disease, which starts with built-up plaque, is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. As gum disease advances, plaque moves further down the tooth where it can destroy the supporting bone in your jaw, causing teeth to loosen and fall out.
Brighten your smile
Drinking coffee, tea and wine or using tobacco can stain your teeth. A dental cleaning can remove built-up stains and leave you with freshly polished teeth.
Freshen your breath
Good oral hygiene is the best way to prevent persistent bad breath.
Boost your overall health
Regular dental cleanings may help lower your risk for some diseases, like heart disease and stroke.
Types of dental cleaning
Prophylaxis Dental Cleaning
Prophylaxis cleanings remove plaque and tartar from the front, back, and sides of teeth using a dental scaler or water stream. Most dental patients only require a prophylaxis cleaning, especially if they have kept up on daily dental hygiene and semi-annual dental appointments.
Scaling and Root Planing Cleaning
Scaling and root planing cleanings, also known as deep cleanings, are used on both the teeth and gum pockets in order to treat gingivitis and periodontitis. Deep cleanings for gingivitis are usually completed in a single dental appointment. Root planing is the process of smoothing the tooth roots, which helps the gums reattach to teeth and eliminate gum pockets.
Periodontal Maintenance Cleaning
Periodontal maintenance cleanings are also dental cleanings designed to treat gum disease. The main thing that sets periodontal maintenance cleanings apart is that they are usually performed more often than other types of dental cleanings. This is because gum disease is progressive and will continue to get worse if not effectively treated.
Gross Debridement Cleaning
Gross debridement cleanings are the most heavy-duty of teeth cleanings designed to clean teeth with copious amounts of plaque and tartar.
Pre-procedure
The best ways to prepare for dental cleaning are to pre-clean by brushing and flossing, avoid whitening teeth for several weeks before the cleaning.
Procedure
A physical exam
Prior to the actual teeth cleansing process, a dental hygienist will first examine the entire mouth. During this inspection, a hygienist may ask whether you have any dental concerns. If they notice any unusual concerns like dark spots on your teeth, the dental hygienist may call a dentist in.
Digital X-rays
This step is usually for first-time patients or those who haven’t had a dental cleaning in over six months.
Removing tartar and plaque
(scaler) to remove tartar and plaque from tooth surfaces. A hygienist may use a manual scaler to scrap off small deposits of tartar.
Polishing
Polishing - With the mirror, a dental hygienist will use a handheld tool after removing tartar and plaque, the teeth are polished to remove any remaining stains. The hygienist uses special gritty toothpaste and a high-powered toothbrush.
Expert flossing
Whether you floss at home or not, professional flossing is a key step in teeth cleaning. Professional flossing gets in between your teeth including those trouble spots.
Fluoride
After scaling and polishing, your dentist near you may recommend a fluoride treatment. Fluoride is a mineral used by dentists to protect your teeth against decay during acid attacks and strengthen the enamel.
Final examination
Now that your teeth are cleaned, a dentist may want to perform a final inspection. This step is to examine your teeth alignment and check for grinding issues and gum disease.
Tips to keep your child's teeth clean
- Help your child to brush their teeth from the time they get their first tooth until they are 7 or 8 years old.
- Use toothpaste with fluoride that is suitable for children. This can help to strengthen the outside of the teeth and prevent decay.
- Make sure your children brush their teeth for at least 2 minutes and remind them not to swallow the toothpaste.
- Try to get into a regular tooth brushing routine, and give your child plenty of praise when they brush their teeth well.
- Replace toothbrushes or toothbrush heads every 3 months.
- Children should floss as soon as they have 2 teeth that touch each other. You should supervise flossing until they are about 10 years old.
- To develop strong teeth, make sure your child eats a healthy, balanced diet. Avoid foods with a lot of added sugar, such as lollies, biscuits, and soft drinks. Always choose fluoridated tap water.
Risks andComplications
You might have slight jaw discomfort as your mouth will be in an open state for an extended period.
Patients who have sensitivity might feel a minor zinging sensation in their teeth during the cleansing process.
This pain is temporary and might disappear after a few hours of the procedure.
What to expect?
You can return to your normal activities post the treatment. You have to follow the general oral hygiene laid out by the dentist and make sure that you adhere to them regularly.
Your teeth and their condition can say a lot about your general health. Ensure to clean and floss your teeth at regular intervals.
FAQs
Do I really need to floss?
There's no getting around the need to get around your teeth daily with dental floss. It clears food and plaque from between teeth and under the gumline.
Does a rinse or mouthwash help?
Mouthwashes for cavity protection, sensitivity, and fresh breath may help when you use them with regular brushing and flossing
Why do I need dental exams?
You should get an exam every 6 months, or more often if your dentist recommends it. Often the dread of seeing the dentist turns to big relief when the visit is over and you have a care plan set up.
Are dental X-rays safe and needed?
Medical and dental experts study the use of X-rays and set limits for their safety. Your dentist should take as few as possible. If you have gum disease, the dentist may want pictures every 6 months. Regular check-ups, it's about every 2 years, depending on your dentist's plan.