A healthy smile requires daily maintenance, like once-daily flossing and twice-daily brushing. But, even with the best daily oral hygiene practices, it’s still possible to develop tartar, cavities, and gum disease. That’s why twice-yearly dental cleanings are so important.
Are you due for a dental cleaning but you don’t have a dentist? Match Mouth can help! We help patients find their ideal dentist to fit their healthcare, budgetary, and lifestyle needs. Contact us today at (208) 900-4737 to get connected with your perfect dentist in Treasure Valley, ID, now!
If it’s been a while or you’ve never scheduled a dental cleaning, then keep reading. In today’s blog post, we explore what dental cleanings are, why you need them, and what to expect during your appointment.
What are dental cleanings?
Dental cleanings (also known as dental prophylaxis) are routine preventive procedures performed by a dental hygienist or dentist. The process involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from teeth using specialized tools such as a scaler and a polisher.
During the cleaning, the hygienist or dentist also examines your teeth and gums for any signs of decay or gum disease. Once all plaque and tartar are removed, then the dentist or hygienist can polish the teeth and apply fluoride treatments for added protection and shine.
Why do you need dental cleanings?
Regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral hygiene and health. Even with good brushing and flossing habits, plaque and tartar can build up in hard-to-reach areas of your mouth. If not removed by a professional, this build-up can lead to tooth decay and gum disease (which roughly half of all American adults have).
Dental cleanings help to remove harmful plaque and tartar, which effectively prevents the progression of decay and disease. Additionally, dental cleanings can help to detect and treat oral health problems early on. As a result, routine dental prophylaxis can end up saving you from extensive (and expensive!) treatments in the future.
What can I expect during a dental cleaning?
During a dental cleaning, you typically lie back in a dental chair while the hygienist or dentist works on your teeth. Usually, the process starts with a visual examination of your teeth and gums to identify any potential issues.
Then, the hygienist or dentist uses a scaler to remove any plaque or tartar buildup from the teeth. This process can be a little uncomfortable, but it should not be painful. If you experience discomfort, let your hygienist or dentist know so they can adjust their technique.
After the scaling is complete, the hygienist or dentist uses a polisher to remove any remaining stains on your teeth. Lastly, they may also apply fluoride to help strengthen your tooth enamel and protect against decay.
Schedule Dental Cleanings in Treasure Valley, ID
Dental cleanings are an important part of your oral and overall health. Ordinarily, dentists recommend twice-yearly cleanings for optimal health and hygiene. Has it been longer than six months since your last dental cleaning? Match Mouth can partner you with a skilled and compassionate dentist now! Simply call (208) 900-4737 or submit a message here to get started.
