Why Do I Need My Teeth Professionally Cleaned?
Professional cleanings are essential for many reasons. During your cleanings, we are able to access all of the areas of your teeth, including the ones that you might have a more difficult time cleaning at home. We are also equipped with the tools to eliminate even the most stubborn tartar, or calcified plaque that cannot be brushed away. This helps to prevent the development of tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease. With professional cleanings, we are also able to help you prevent a myriad of other issues that can be caused by gum disease and infections including respiratory issues, heart disease, diabetes, and more. Even though we are just cleaning your teeth, we are able to help you protect the health of your whole body.
Getting Your Teeth Cleaned
Professional cleanings are a fairly straightforward procedure. We begin by scraping all surfaces of your teeth. Using a specialized tool, we scrape away plaque, tartar, bacteria, and other debris from all visible surfaces of your teeth, including between the teeth as well as along, and below, the gumline.
After we have scraped your teeth, we move on to polishing them. This is done with an electric handpiece and a special dental polish. The polish contains abrasives, which scrub the surfaces of your teeth as the head of the electric handpiece rotates. This eliminates surface stains and debris, leaving your teeth with a beautiful, clean shine.
Finally, the last step of your dental cleaning is flossing. We carefully floss between each of your teeth to eliminate any buildup that might be hiding out there. Flossing also helps to rid your mouth of any loose debris and polish that may have accumulated between your teeth during your cleaning.
What Are the Benefits of Professional Cleanings?
There are numerous benefits of having your teeth professionally cleaned twice a year.
- We can clean all areas of your teeth, including the areas you may not be able to access at home.
- We can remove all buildup from your teeth, including the most stubborn plaque.
- Keeping your teeth clean helps to prevent serious oral health issues such as cavities and gum disease. It also helps to protect your overall health as well.
- You get a brighter smile. Removing surface stains whitens your teeth. • Removing bacteria and other debris from your teeth leaves you with fresher breath.
- You save money. By preventing oral health issues from occurring in the first place, you prevent the need for potentially expensive dental treatments later. With professional cleanings, we can help you to prevent the development of serious oral health issues. To schedule your next professional cleaning, call Shenandoah Family Dentistry today at 540-773-0234.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Cleaning
How often should I get a dental cleaning?
Most patients benefit from professional dental cleanings every six months, although your dentist may recommend a different schedule based on your oral health needs.
What happens during a dental cleaning?
A dental cleaning typically involves removing plaque and tartar, polishing the teeth, and checking your teeth and gums for signs of cavities, gum disease, or other concerns.
Is professional teeth cleaning necessary if I brush and floss daily?
Yes. Brushing and flossing help maintain your teeth at home, but professional cleanings remove hardened tartar and buildup that regular home care cannot completely eliminate.
Does a dental cleaning hurt?
Routine dental cleanings are generally comfortable. If you have sensitive teeth, inflamed gums, or significant tartar buildup, your dental team can take steps to make the experience more comfortable.
How long does a dental cleaning take?
A routine dental cleaning appointment often takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your oral health, the amount of buildup, and whether additional examinations are needed.
Can dental cleanings prevent cavities and gum disease?
Regular professional cleanings help remove plaque and tartar that contribute to cavities and gum disease while allowing your dentist to identify potential concerns early.
What is the difference between a regular cleaning and deep cleaning?
A regular cleaning focuses on maintaining healthy teeth and gums, while a deep cleaning may be recommended to treat gum disease by cleaning beneath the gumline.
Can I get a dental cleaning if my gums bleed?
Bleeding gums can be a sign of gum inflammation or disease. Your dentist can evaluate the cause and determine which type of cleaning or periodontal treatment is appropriate.
