What is a professional teeth cleaning?
Professional teeth cleaning is a preventive oral health service that supports your daily at-home oral hygiene routine. Regular tooth brushing and flossing removes food debris and bacteria and keeps your teeth and gums healthy.
However, even with good at-home care, you can’t get rid of all the bacteria in your mouth. The leftover bacteria creates a biofilm called plaque that collects on your teeth and tongue and under your gums and contributes to the development of cavities and gum disease.
Brushing and flossing remove plaque from the surface of your teeth and gums but may not be able to get rid of the plaque that settles under the gumline. When it’s not removed, this plaque hardens into a substance called tartar.
Tartar traps bacteria on your teeth and under your gums and may lead to tooth decay, gum disease, or tooth loss if left untreated. Unlike plaque, brushing and flossing can’t remove the hardened tartar that collects on your teeth and gums.
Professional teeth cleaning is the only way to remove the hard, calcified tartar.
What can I expect during a teeth cleaning?
You can expect comprehensive and gentle care during your teeth cleaning. First, your dental professional reviews your medical history, examines your teeth and gums, and assesses your bite.
Once your initial exam is complete, your dental professional starts your teeth cleaning, which includes:
- Removal of plaque and tartar from your teeth and under your gums with a scaler
- Polishing of your teeth with a special toothpaste and electric toothbrush
- Professional flossing
- Mouth rinsing
- Application of fluoride to your teeth
Depending on your oral health needs, your provider may also take X-rays to look for oral health issues that a visual oral exam can’t see.
When should I schedule my teeth cleaning?
Your dentist determines when you should schedule teeth cleanings. However, if it’s been more than six months since your last visit to the dentist, then it’s time to schedule a teeth cleaning.
In general, most people benefit from professional teeth cleaning every six months. However, you may need more frequent teeth cleanings if you have an oral health issue, such as gum disease, or a medical condition that increases your risk of gum disease like diabetes.
To schedule your professional teeth cleaning, contact Kaio Dental by phone or book online today.
