Unfortunately, professional teeth cleaning is not something most patients love. There is prodding, poking, strange noises, and slight discomfort in the jaws for good measure. Though, a teeth clean is easy and painless in most cases. Read on to find out why this procedure is vital for your oral health.
A professional teeth clean starts with a dental examination
A dentist can perform teeth cleaning, but mostly it is performed by a dental hygienist. They begin with a dental examination of your oral cavity, by checking for signs of inflamed gums, oral cancer and any other dental issues. Teeth cleaning involves, getting rid of the build-up of calculus from your teeth. This is to prevent cavities and gingivitis, which is the first stage of gum disease. Dental hygienists can remove the build-up of calculus, which patients cannot do on their own at home. Professional teeth cleaning also include debridement and tooth polishing. If there is too much calculus, debridement is mandatory. Using an ultrasonic scaler as well as hand scaler’s, the dental hygienist/dentist removes the calculus and plaque between the teeth and around the gum line. The process will take longer if you have a lot of calculus on your teeth. Flossing and brushing regularly keeps plaque from building up and hardening.
Toothpaste cleaning
After removing all of the calculus, the hygienist/dentist brushes your teeth with a special toothpaste. You will find the consistency to be somewhat gritty but other than that, it tastes and smells just like normal toothpaste. Teeth cleaning is called prophylaxis and cannot be done at home. Even with very careful brushing and flossing, you face the risk of developing problems. This is mostly in areas that are hard to reach with regular brushing.
Flossing and rinsing
Even regular flossing at home, can not beat the professional procedure. Your dental hygienist/dentist can reach between the teeth and find issues like gum bleeding. They also remove any leftover toothpaste or plaque from earlier in the cleaning process. Then, the dental hygienist/dentist will get you to rinse your mouth out using a liquid fluoride-containing product to eliminate any residual debris.
Twice yearly
A professional teeth cleaning is done twice yearly. Dentists recommend getting some x-rays done once a year. Further, an examination might be recommended depending on their findings. A dental hygienist and dentist might recommend molar sealants for children. This prevents cavities in parts that are difficult to brush.
Final step
Dental professionals place fluoride paste on high-risk patients to protect the teeth so that you don’t develop cavities, at least in the near future. This product is a paste, which the hygienist/dentist paints on your teeth with a small micro brush and floss between your teeth. It stays on your teeth for about a minute. When it comes into contact with saliva, it gets harder. It is recommended that you do not eat or drink for 30 minutes after it has been applied.
To prevent problems from occurring, you need to have professional teeth cleaning done regularly. Ponsonby A&E Dental is proud to offer this service.
