A quality teeth cleaning, typically performed by a dental hygienist, involves several key steps to ensure thorough removal of plaque, tartar, and stains, as well as an overall assessment of oral health. Here’s what’s usually involved:
1. Oral Exam
- Assessment: Before the cleaning begins, the hygienist will examine your mouth using a small mirror to check for signs of inflamed gums, cavities, or other potential issues. They may take x-rays if necessary to get a clearer view of your teeth and gums.
2. Scaling (Plaque and Tartar Removal)
- Manual Tools/Ultrasonic Scaler: Plaque and tartar are removed from the surface of the teeth and around the gumline. Tartar is hardened plaque that can only be removed with special tools. The hygienist will use either manual scalers or an ultrasonic tool with vibration and water spray to loosen the deposits.
3. Polishing
- Gritty Toothpaste: After scaling, the teeth are polished with a high-powered electric brush and a gritty toothpaste, designed to scrub away any remaining plaque and stains. This helps smooth the surface of the teeth.
4. Flossing
- Deep Flossing: The hygienist will floss between all teeth to remove any remaining debris, ensuring that the spaces between the teeth are clean. This also helps evaluate the health of your gums and may reveal any areas that require further attention.
5. Rinsing
- Fluoride/Antiseptic Rinse: The cleaning is followed by rinsing, often with a fluoride or antiseptic mouthwash, to remove debris and leave the mouth feeling fresh.
6. Fluoride Treatment (Optional)
- Strengthening Enamel: In some cases, a fluoride treatment is applied to help strengthen tooth enamel and protect against cavities. This is often done using a gel, foam, or varnish applied to the teeth for a few minutes.
7. Post-Cleaning Examination
- Dentist Check-Up: After the cleaning, the dentist may perform a brief exam to review the hygienist’s findings and check for any issues, such as cavities, gum disease, or oral health conditions that may need further treatment.
Benefits of Quality Cleaning:
- Prevention of Tooth Decay and Gum Disease: Regular cleaning helps prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar, which can lead to cavities and gum disease if left untreated.
- Brighter Smile: Polishing helps remove surface stains, contributing to a brighter, whiter smile.
- Fresher Breath: Removal of bacteria and debris reduces the chance of bad breath.
It's recommended to get a professional dental cleaning every six months to maintain optimal oral health.
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