Your neighborhood dentist caring for your whole mouth health.

Address:

950 South Main Street, Kernersville, NC

Phone:

336-967-0955

Dental Cleaning

Teeth cleaning, also known as dental cleaning or dental hygiene, is a crucial aspect of maintaining oral health. It involves the removal of dental plaque and tartar (calculus) from the teeth to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. Here's an overview of the process:

  1. Preparation: Before the cleaning begins, a dental hygienist will often review your medical history and ask about any dental concerns or problems you may have. This information helps them tailor the cleaning process to your specific needs.
  2. Physical Examination: The dental hygienist will examine your mouth and teeth, looking for any signs of oral health issues, such as cavities, gum disease, or other abnormalities.
  3. Scaling: This is the process of removing plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces. The dental hygienist may use specialized dental instruments, such as scalers and curettes, to gently scrape away these deposits. This step helps prevent the progression of gum disease and tooth decay.
  4. Polishing: After scaling, the dental hygienist will typically use a high-powered toothbrush and a gritty toothpaste to polish your teeth. This step removes surface stains and leaves your teeth feeling smooth and clean.
  5. Flossing: The hygienist will floss your teeth to remove any remaining plaque or debris from between your teeth and along the gumline.
  6. Fluoride Treatment (optional): Some dental cleanings include a fluoride treatment. Fluoride helps strengthen your tooth enamel and can protect against tooth decay. It is typically applied as a gel, foam, or varnish.
  7. Educational Guidance: During or after the cleaning, the dental hygienist may provide you with tips on proper oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing techniques, as well as dietary advice to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
  8. X-rays (if necessary): In some cases, dental X-rays may be taken to get a more detailed view of your teeth and identify any underlying issues that may not be visible during the physical examination.

Regular teeth cleaning appointments with a dental hygienist, typically recommended every six months, are essential for preventing dental problems and maintaining good oral health. Additionally, practicing good oral hygiene at home by brushing and flossing daily, as well as maintaining a balanced diet, can further contribute to the health of your teeth and gums.

 

Benefits of Good Oral Hygiene

Regular dental check-ups allow your dentist to identify dental problems at an early stage. This includes detecting cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and other oral health issues before they become more serious and potentially require more extensive and costly treatment.
Dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup, which helps prevent tooth decay and gum disease. The dentist or dental hygienist can also provide fluoride treatments or dental sealants to strengthen and protect your teeth.
Professional dental cleanings are more effective at removing plaque and tartar than at-home brushing and flossing. This reduces the risk of cavities and gum disease and keeps your teeth looking and feeling clean.
Your dentist can provide personalized advice on oral hygiene practices, including brushing and flossing techniques tailored to your specific needs. They can also recommend products and tools that may be beneficial for your oral health.
During routine dental exams, dentists often perform oral cancer screenings. Early detection of oral cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes, making regular dental visits potentially life-saving.
Dentists can offer guidance and support for quitting harmful habits like smoking or excessive alcohol consumption, which can have a negative impact on oral health.
Regular dental visits help maintain comprehensive dental records, which can be crucial for tracking your oral health over time and making informed treatment decisions.
Early detection and treatment of dental issues can prevent tooth loss, ensuring that you keep your natural teeth for as long as possible.
There is a growing body of research suggesting a link between oral health and overall health. Regular dental visits can help reduce the risk of systemic health problems like heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory issues.
Preventive dental care is generally more affordable than treating advanced dental problems. By addressing issues early, you can avoid the need for more extensive and costly dental procedures.