What are Dental Cleanings?
Dental cleaning is an important procedure that is imperative for excellent oral health. Dentists or dental hygienists will perform the dental cleaning. The goal of a dental cleaning appointment is to remove dental plaque and tartar that compiled on the teeth. This will protect the teeth from cavities or dental caries along with other tooth or gum issues that may arise. Basic cleaning happens at home with a toothbrush, toothpaste and floss but deeper, more meticulous cleaning is needed by a dentist since plaque and tartar cannot be completely eradicated by at home care.
Soft, sticky and infested with bacteria, plaque needs to be removed regularly since it can lead to tooth decay and cavities. Tartar is hard calcium deposits that will buildup on teeth over time. If it builds up too much it can cause gums to recede and gum disease.
Dr. Heather Darcey and her team of dental professionals can help! Call 281-317-6881 or make Schedule an Appointment online.
A Professional teeth cleaning is necessary once every six months.
However, if a patient has existing oral issues or disorders then a professional dental cleaning is needed more often. This procedure is known as prophylaxis and is important to remove the mineralized plaque or tartar deposits on teeth. However, if a patient has existing oral issues or disorders then a professional dental cleaning is needed more often. At a usual dental cleaning, a patient can expect a physical exam by the dental hygienist. A small mirror will be used to check teeth and gums for sign of gingivitis or other issues. The process of removing plaque and tartar will then begin. The dental hygienist will use a scaler to scrap the gum line and in between teeth. Once the hard to reach plaque and tartar is removed, the hygienist will brush the teeth with a high-powered electric brush covered in a gritty toothpaste to get rid of any tartar left behind. Flossing is the next step that the dental hygienist will take to make sure any leftover plaque is gotten rid of. Fluoride may be the last step after rinsing if the patient has not had a fluoride treatment before or for some time between dental appointments.
Have any questions? Call Dr. Heather Darcey at Space Age Smiles 281-317-6881
Dental cleanings are scheduled twice a year for good oral care but a patient may also get an x-ray while at one of the appointments.
Going to the dentist for a regular dental cleaning is meant to:
- Prevent cavities
- Maintain a healthy mouth
- Prevent periodontal disease
- Prevent tartar build-up
- Remove surface stains
Schedule an appointment with Dr. Heather Darcey to get your dental cleaning! Call 281-317-6881 or make an appointment online.