What to Expect During a Teeth Cleaning Appointment
Your dental hygienist will greet you and take you to the treatment room. They will begin by asking you a few questions about your medical and dentists in las vegas history, such as if you have any allergies or are taking any medications.
Physical exam
The dental hygienist will then perform a physical exam of your mouth. They will use a small mirror to look for any signs of gum disease, cavities, or other dental issues. They may also check your bite and alignment.
Removing plaque and tartar
Once the physical exam is complete, the dental hygienist will begin removing plaque and tartar from your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film that contains bacteria. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional.
The dental hygienist will use a variety of tools to remove plaque and tartar, including:
- Scaler: A scaler is a handheld tool with a sharp hook on the end. The dental hygienist uses the scaler to scrape plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth and along the gum line.
- Ultrasonic scaler: An ultrasonic scaler uses high-frequency sound waves to break up plaque and tartar. This can be a more comfortable option for patients with sensitive teeth.
- Air polisher: An air polisher uses a mixture of air and water to remove plaque and tartar from hard-to-reach areas.
Gritty toothpaste cleaning
After the plaque and tartar have been removed, the dental hygienist will polish your teeth with a gritty toothpaste. This helps to remove any remaining plaque and tartar, and it also gives your teeth a shiny finish.
Expert flossing
The dental hygienist will then floss your teeth to remove any remaining plaque and tartar from between your teeth. They may also use a special type of floss called interdental brushes to clean between your teeth.
Rinsing
Once the flossing is complete, the dental hygienist will ask you to rinse your mouth with water. This will remove any remaining toothpaste or debris.
Fluoride treatment
In some cases, the dental hygienist may recommend a fluoride treatment. Fluoride helps to strengthen your teeth and make them more resistant to cavities.
The dental hygienist will apply a fluoride gel or varnish to your teeth. You will then be asked to hold the gel or varnish in your mouth for a few minutes before rinsing.
Review of findings
Once the cleaning is complete, the dental hygienist will review their findings with you. They will discuss any areas of concern and recommend any necessary follow-up care.
Tips for a comfortable dental cleaning
- Let your dental hygienist know if you have any sensitive areas in your mouth.
- If you feel any discomfort during the cleaning, raise your hand or make a noise. The dental hygienist will stop and adjust their technique.
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions. The dental hygienist is happy to explain any part of the cleaning process.
How often should I get my teeth cleaned?
The American Dental Association recommends that most people get their teeth cleaned twice a year. However, some people may need to get their teeth cleaned more often, such as if they have gum disease or are at high risk for cavities.
What to do after your dental cleaning
After your dental cleaning, it is important to brush and floss your teeth regularly to maintain good oral health. You should also avoid eating sticky or sugary foods for at least 30 minutes after your cleaning.
If you have any questions or concerns about your dental cleaning, be sure to talk to your dental hygienist or dentist.
Additional information about teeth cleaning
- Types of dental cleanings
There are two main types of dental cleanings: prophylaxis and deep cleaning.
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Prophylaxis: A prophylaxis cleaning is a routine cleaning that is performed every six months. It involves removing plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth and along the gum line.
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Deep cleaning: A deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a more involved cleaning that is performed to treat gum disease. It involves removing plaque and tartar from below the gum line.
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Cost of dental cleanings
The cost of a dental cleaning will vary depending on your insurance coverage and the type of cleaning that you receive. However, most dental insurance plans will cover at least one prophylaxis cleaning per year.
- Benefits of dental cleanings
Regular dental cleanings offer a number of benefits, including:
- Reduced risk of cavities: Dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar, which can cause cavities.
- Reduced risk of gum disease: Dental cleanings also help to prevent gum disease, which is a serious infection that can damage your gums and bones.
- **Fresher breath