Taking care of our teeth is super important, and one way we do that is through dental cleanings. A dental cleaning is a professional cleaning you get from a dentist or dental hygienist. It helps remove plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing might miss. Staying on top of dental cleanings can prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues, keeping our mouths healthy and smiles bright.
Regular dental cleanings can do more than just keep your teeth clean. They play a big role in your overall health, too. By understanding the different options available, you can make better choices about your dental care. Let's dive into dental cleanings and why they are important and explore the different types to help you find the right one for you.
A dental cleaning is a procedure performed by a dentist or dental hygienist to maintain and improve oral health. During the cleaning, special tools remove plaque, tartar, and stains from surfaces of the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can lead to cavities and gum disease if not properly removed. Tartar, also known as calculus, is hardened plaque that forms if plaque isn't cleaned off in time. Regular at-home brushing and flossing help, but professional cleanings reach areas that are tough to clean.
Getting your teeth cleaned regularly is vital for keeping your mouth healthy. Dental cleanings help prevent cavities by removing plaque and tartar that can cause decay. Cleanings also help prevent gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems if not treated. Gum disease starts with gingivitis, which can be reversed with proper care. If untreated, it can advance to periodontitis, a long-term gum disease that can damage the bones supporting your teeth.
Regular cleanings also help to maintain a bright smile. Removing surface stains keeps your teeth looking better and more attractive. Plus, dental cleanings allow dentists to catch problems early before they become more serious and harder to treat. This regular check-up includes a thorough examination, which can spot the early signs of oral health issues.
Most people are familiar with a routine dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis. It's a standard cleaning to maintain oral hygiene and prevent dental issues. During a routine cleaning, the dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline. They also polish your teeth and floss to ensure everything is clean. This type of cleaning is usually recommended every six months for people with healthy gums and minimal tartar buildup.
If you have gum disease, you might need a deep cleaning called scaling and root planing. This type of cleaning goes beyond the gum line to remove tartar and bacteria from the roots of your teeth. First, scaling removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gum line. Then, root planing smooths out the roots, helping your gums reattach to your teeth. Deep cleanings are usually needed when your gums have started to pull away from your teeth, creating pockets where bacteria can grow.
Gross debridement cleaning is a more intensive cleaning meant for people without dental care in a long time. When there is a large amount of plaque and tartar buildup, a simple cleaning won't be enough. This procedure starts by quickly removing most of the plaque and tartar so the dentist can better examine your teeth and gums. After the initial cleaning, a follow-up cleaning is often needed to remove any remaining plaque and tartar and ensure your mouth is completely clean.
Deciding which type of dental cleaning is right for you depends on several factors. First, the current state of your oral health plays a big role. If you visit the dentist regularly and have good oral hygiene, a routine cleaning might be sufficient. However, if you have signs of gum disease or haven't visited the dentist in a long time, a more intensive cleaning might be necessary.
Some signs can indicate the need for a specific type of dental cleaning. You might need a deep cleaning to treat gum disease if you notice red, swollen gums or bleeding when you brush or floss. Bad breath that doesn't go away even after brushing could also mean a buildup of bacteria below the gumline that needs more intensive cleaning.
Regular dental cleanings offer numerous health benefits. They help prevent cavities by removing plaque, the primary cause of tooth decay. Gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss, is also prevented through thorough cleanings. Catching and treating oral health problems early can save you from more extensive dental procedures down the line. Cleanings can also prevent other health issues such as heart disease and diabetes, as there is a connection between oral health and overall health.
Regular dental cleanings improve overall dental hygiene by keeping your teeth and gums in top shape. Clean teeth look better and feel better, making you more confident in your smile. Professional cleanings reach areas that are difficult to clean at home, ensuring that bacteria and plaque are effectively removed. This helps keep your breath fresh and your teeth strong. Frequent check-ups allow your dentist to provide tips and recommendations to help you maintain good oral hygiene practices.
Understanding the different types of dental cleanings and knowing which one you need can significantly improve your oral health. From routine cleanings to more intensive treatments like deep cleaning or perio maintenance, each type of cleaning plays an important role in keeping your mouth healthy. Regular dental cleanings ensure that your teeth and gums stay in good condition and offer broader health benefits that can enhance your overall well-being. Taking care of your oral health is an essential part of taking care of your entire body.
Keeping up with dental cleanings means fewer dental problems and a healthier smile. If it’s been a while since your last dental visit, or if you’re experiencing issues with your gums or teeth, it might be time to schedule a cleaning. Visit our family dental clinic, Eagle Mountain Dentistry, to start on the right path to a healthier mouth. Schedule your appointment today, and let us help you keep your smile bright and healthy!
We want our new patients not using insurance to start off with the best care available. Schedule an appointment today and get a cleaning, exam, X-Rays, and a free consult or second opinion for only $99.
Using insurance? You can benefit too! We are offering a complimentary teeth whitening treatment for all new patients using insurance.
*$300 value.
*New patients only. Not valid in cases of periodontal disease. Not valid for use with insurance.