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Dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis or a dental hygiene appointment, is a crucial aspect of maintaining good oral health. It involves several steps aimed at removing plaque, tartar (calculus), and stains from the teeth, as well as assessing the overall health of the mouth.
Here's what you can expect during a dental cleaning appointment:
Before the cleaning begins, the dental hygienist or dentist will perform a thorough examination of your mouth, gums, and teeth. This may involve checking for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, oral cancer, and other oral health issues.
Using specialized dental instruments, such as scalers and curettes, the hygienist or dentist will carefully remove plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of your teeth, including those hard-to-reach areas between the teeth and along the gumline. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth, while tartar is hardened plaque that cannot be removed with regular brushing and flossing.
After removing plaque and tartar, the hygienist or dentist will polish your teeth using a gritty toothpaste-like substance and a rotating polishing tool. This helps to remove surface stains and make your teeth look cleaner and brighter.
Flossing is an essential part of dental cleaning, as it helps remove plaque and debris from between the teeth and along the gumline. The hygienist or dentist will floss between each of your teeth to ensure that all areas are thoroughly cleaned.
Some dental cleaning appointments may include a fluoride treatment, especially for patients at higher risk of tooth decay. Fluoride helps strengthen the enamel and protect the teeth against cavities. The fluoride treatment may be applied as a gel, foam, or varnish and is typically left on the teeth for a few minutes before being rinsed off.
Throughout the cleaning appointment, the hygienist or dentist will provide personalized oral hygiene instructions tailored to your specific needs. This may include recommendations for brushing and flossing techniques, selecting the right oral care products, and maintaining a healthy diet to support optimal oral health.
Once the cleaning is complete, the hygienist or dentist will evaluate the overall health of your mouth and discuss any findings or recommendations with you. This may include scheduling follow-up appointments for additional treatments or addressing any concerns you may have about your oral health.
In summary, dental cleaning involves a series of steps aimed at removing plaque, tartar, and stains from the teeth, as well as assessing the overall health of the mouth. By regularly scheduling dental cleaning appointments and practicing good oral hygiene at home, you can maintain a healthy smile and prevent dental problems in the future.