Your dental hygienist will recommend that you come in for a professional dental cleaning every 3-6 months. The frequency is based on the health of your teeth and gums, certain risk factors, and certain medical conditions. But, what is a professional dental cleaning, and what does it involve?
Benefits of a Professional Dental Cleaning
– Healthier gums
– Reduces plaque and tartar build-up
– Reduce halitosis (bad breath)
– Reduce oral bacteria that contributes to cavities and gum disease
– Tips for proper brushing and flossing at home
– Checking your mouth for any abnormalities or signs of oral cancer
– Checking your jaw joint and your teeth for signs of wear
– Assessing any changes to your gums overtime such as inflammation, recession and gum pockets
What Is Involved?
First, your dental hygienist will review your medical history. Overall health and oral health are linked. Any medical conditions, medications or allergies are documented. Next, a complete intraoral and extraoral exam will be performed. During this time, your neck, jaw joint, lymph nodes, cheeks, tongue and throat will be checked for any abnormalities.
After the initial examination is complete, your dental hygienist will clean your teeth by removing all plaque and tartar. The cleaning is completed using a series of hand tools called “scalers” and ultrasonic instruments that use a type of vibration and water to remove plaque and tartar. Plaque and tartar sit above the gum line and below the gum line, and different tools are used for different areas. Once the plaque and tartar are removed from your teeth, your teeth will be flossed, and polished. Polishing removes all external staining from your teeth by using a gritty, slightly abrasive polishing paste. At the end of your appointment, your dental hygienist will administer fluoride (if recommended) and give you tips on keeping your teeth clean based on your needs.