Maintaining good oral health requires routine dental treatment, and a key component of this is professional teeth cleaning. Whether you’re a newcomer to dental visits or a seasoned patient, understanding what happens during a professional teeth cleaning can help alleviate any anxiety and ensure you get the most out of your dental appointments. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what you should expect during your next visit to the dentist.
1. Introduction to Professional Teeth Cleaning
Professional deep cleaning teeth, also known as dental prophylaxis, is a technique performed by a dentist to remove plaque, tartar, and stains that have been collected on your teeth. While regular brushing and flossing are important for daily maintenance, professional cleaning goes beyond these efforts to reach areas that are difficult to clean at home.
2. Initial Assessment
Your appointment typically begins with an initial dental hygienist or dentist assessment. They will examine your teeth and gums to detect signs of gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis), cavities, or other oral health issues. X-rays may also be taken to get a more detailed view of your dental condition.
3. Removal of Plaque and Tartar
One of its primary objectives is removing plaque and tartar buildup. If plaque—a sticky layer of bacteria—is not removed from teeth, it can cause cavities and gum disease. Tartar, sometimes referred to as calculus, is a hardened plaque that needs to be removed with specialized dental tools and cannot be eliminated by brushing alone.
4. Scaling and Polishing
Once the plaque and tartar are assessed, the dental hygienist will proceed with scaling using a scaler tool to carefully scrape off any remaining plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces, particularly along the gumline and between teeth. This process may produce a scraping sound, but it is a necessary step to ensure thorough cleaning.
Right after scaling, a powerful electric brush and grit-filled toothpaste are used to polish the teeth. This helps make your teeth bright and smooth by removing surface stains. The polishing process may feel slightly gritty but is painless and contributes to a clean and refreshed feeling.
5. Fluoride Treatment
Following scaling and polishing, a fluoride treatment may be recommended. It helps strengthen teeth and can prevent tooth decay by remineralizing the enamel. The fluoride treatment is typically applied as a gel, foam, or varnish and left on the teeth for a few minutes. You may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes after the fluoride application to allow the teeth to absorb it.
6. Oral Health Education and Recommendations
The dental hygienist will provide personalized oral health education and recommendations as part of your professional appointment. This may include instructions on correct brushing and flossing practices, advice on selecting oral hygiene products suitable for your needs, and tips for maintaining good oral health between dental visits. They may also discuss any specific concerns or issues noted during the examination and cleaning.
Professional deep cleaning of teeth is an essential aspect of keeping a healthy smile and avoiding dental disorders. By understanding what to expect during your appointment—from the initial assessment to the scaling, polishing, and optional fluoride treatment—you can confidently approach your dental visits and ensure that your teeth receive the care they need. Remember that regular cleanings benefit both your oral health and your general well-being.
