If you want to keep your teeth healthy and bright, you should visit your dentist regularly for a professional dental cleaning. A dental cleaning is a procedure that removes plaque and tartar from your teeth, which are the main causes of gum disease and tooth decay. Dental cleaning also helps to remove stains from your teeth, giving you a whiter smile.
There are different types of dental cleaning, depending on your oral health needs. The most common type is prophylaxis, which is a routine cleaning for people who have healthy gums and no signs of gum disease. Prophylaxis involves scaling and polishing your teeth, using special instruments and paste.
Deep Dental Cleaning:
Another type of dental cleaning is deep cleaning, which is also called periodontal scaling or root planing. This type of cleaning is recommended for people who have gum disease, which is an infection of the tissues that support the teeth. Gum disease can cause bleeding, swelling, and receding gums, as well as loose teeth and bad breath. Deep cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line and smoothing the roots of the teeth to help the gums reattach.
A dental cleaning has many benefits for your oral health and overall well-being. Some of these benefits are:
– It prevents gum disease and tooth decay by removing plaque and tartar, which are the main sources of bacteria in your mouth.
– It improves your breath by eliminating the odor-causing bacteria that live in plaque and tartar.
– It enhances your smile by removing stains from your teeth, such as those caused by coffee, tea, wine, or tobacco.
– It lowers your risk of developing other health problems that are linked to gum disease, such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, and some cancers.
– It saves you money in the long run by avoiding costly dental treatments that may be needed if you neglect your oral hygiene.
To get the most out of your dental cleaning, you should follow some tips before and after your appointment. Before your dental cleaning, you should:
– Brush and floss your teeth thoroughly to remove any food particles and loose plaque.
– Avoid eating or drinking anything that can stain your teeth like coffee, tea, wine, or berries.
– Make a list of any questions or concerns you have about your oral health or the procedure.
After your dental cleaning, you should:
– Rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash to remove any residue from the cleaning paste or fluoride treatment.
– Avoid eating or drinking anything that can stain your teeth for at least an hour after the cleaning.
– Brush and floss your teeth gently to avoid irritating your gums, especially if you have a deep cleaning.
– Follow any instructions or recommendations from your dentist or hygienist regarding your oral care routine.
FAQs with answers on dental cleaning:
Q. How long does a dental cleaning take?
A: A dental cleaning typically takes 30-60 minutes, depending on the type of cleaning you need. Prophylaxis cleanings are shorter, while deep cleanings are longer.
Q. Will a dental cleaning hurt?
A: Most people do not experience any pain during a dental cleaning. However, if you have sensitive gums or have a deep cleaning, you may experience some discomfort. Your dentist or hygienist can use a topical anesthetic to numb your gums before the cleaning begins.
Q. How often should I get my teeth cleaned?
A: The American Dental Association recommends getting your teeth cleaned every 6 months. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings if you have gum disease, diabetes, or other health conditions that put you at risk for dental problems.
Q: How often should I get a dental cleaning if I have gum disease?
A: If you have gum disease, your dentist will recommend a dental cleaning schedule that is right for you. Typically, people with gum disease need to get their teeth cleaned more often than people with healthy gums.
Q: What are the signs that I need a dental cleaning?
A: Some signs that you may need a dental cleaning include:
- Bleeding gums
- Red or swollen gums
- Bad breath
- Loose teeth
- Receding gums
- Plaque or tartar buildup
A dental cleaning is a simple and effective way to maintain your oral health and improve your smile. By getting your teeth cleaned at least once or twice a year, you can prevent many dental problems and enjoy the benefits of a healthy mouth.
