Staying on top of oral hygiene is crucial if you want to avoid cavities and gum disease. As part of a dental cleaning at our Marietta office, we will find any early signs of oral health issues and leave you with a clean, bright smile.
But what if it’s been a while since you’ve had your teeth professionally cleaned? In that case you might want a refresher on what to expect. You can also help others understand the importance of visiting their dentist by sharing our dental cleanings infographic on your social media platforms.
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What Happens at a Professional Dental Cleaning?
Dental cleaning is a pain-free, comfortable treatment that delivers long-term beneficial results. Here are the main stages in the teeth cleaning process.
Dental Examination
Initially, a dentist carefully examines the teeth and gums for signs of cavities, gum inflammation and other issues. A dental mirror makes it easy to see hard-to-reach areas where tooth decay or redness signals a problem.
Scaling to Remove Plaque and Tartar
Plaque and tartar are leading oral hygiene problems that often result in gingivitis, periodontitis, bad breath – and infections that could lead to tooth loss. A key reason your mouth isn’t healthy may be inflammation of the gums, and plaque buildup is likely exacerbating this.
Using a scaler, your dentist will scrape away the plaque and tartar to reduce inflammation. Removing this buildup of bacteria is also essential for reducing tooth decay.
Toothpaste Cleaning
Next, the teeth are polished using special toothpaste and a high-powered electric polisher. The slightly abrasive toothpaste can remove leftover plaque and reduce tooth stains that result from coffee, tea, wine and tobacco use.
Flossing
Flossing between the teeth will also help remove the remains of plaque. The process can also identify if bleeding from the gums occurs during flossing. If bleeding does occur, it may require further investigation.
Fluoride Treatment
A fluoride treatment is often applied to strengthen teeth and protect against cavities. First, a gel is applied and left to sit on the teeth for about a minute before fluoride varnish is added. This varnish hardens on the teeth to deliver long-lasting protection against dental cavities.
X-Rays
In some cases, your dentist may recommend an X-ray to evaluate both the teeth and surrounding tissue at a deeper level. An X-ray can reveal bone loss, cavities and other issues that are not immediately visible.
Dental Recommendations
Finally, your dentist may offer recommendations on effective oral hygiene techniques. Patients can also ask about additional family dental services such as sealants or teeth whitening.
Share Our Professional Dental Cleaning Infographic
Regular dental cleanings identify oral health problems to help prevent cavities and address other dental issues. You can help raise awareness of the need for consistent teeth cleaning visits by sharing our infographic on your social media profiles. And if you’d like to arrange a dental cleaning in Marietta, call (770) 420-8550 or request an appointment today.