Dental Cleaning

What is a dental cleaning?

A dental cleaning is a procedure that your dentist or dental hygienist routinely performs to remove all of the plaque and tartar from your teeth, keeping your smile clean and healthy. When you get a dental cleaning, you’ll usually also have a routine exam, during which your dentist inspects your mouth for any signs of developing dental conditions like tooth decay or gum disease.

Why do I need dental cleanings?

Dental cleanings are a type of preventive dental care, a dental philosophy that aims to keep your smile healthy by preventing problems from occurring in the first place or treating them before they’ve had a chance to develop into something larger or more complex.

Both gum disease and tooth decay, for example, require more involved treatments the longer they’re left to progress, and both conditions can be difficult to notice until they’ve already gotten into their later stages. By practicing good preventive care, you can save yourself the time and expense of more invasive treatments down the line.

Dental cleanings are also necessary for keeping your smile fully clean. Regardless of how often you brush and floss at home, there might be nooks and crannies that you’re missing. Certain buildup, like tartar, can only be removed with professional cleaning. 

What happens during a dental cleaning?

First, your provider at Advantage Dental Care performs a visual inspection of your smile, looking at each of your teeth for signs of decay or other problems. They might also check for gum disease by using a special tool to measure the depth of the pockets between your teeth and gums.

Depending on how long it’s been since your last exam, your provider might take X-rays of your mouth to get a more precise look.

After your exam, the cleaning begins. Your provider uses a special tool to scrape the plaque and tartar off each of your teeth. Then, they use a gritty toothpaste and an electric toothbrush to polish your teeth and give you professional flossing. If they think that you need extra protection from cavities, they might recommend a fluoride rinse.

How often should I get a dental cleaning?

Most patients need to have a dental cleaning once every six months. Some patients, like those suffering from gum disease, might need more frequent cleanings to ensure their smile stays healthy.

Schedule your dental cleaning with Advantage Dental Care today by calling the office or booking an appointment online.