Teeth cleaning, also known as dental prophylaxis, is a professional procedure performed by dentists to remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. It involves a thorough cleaning of the teeth, gums, and mouth to maintain optimal oral health.
What Happens During Teeth Cleaning?
During the cleaning session, the dental professional uses specialized tools such as scrapers and ultrasonic devices to carefully remove plaque and tartar from hard-to-reach areas that regular brushing and flossing might miss. This process helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, and other oral health issues. In addition to removing plaque and tartar buildup, teeth cleaning can also involve polishing your teeth to smooth out any rough surfaces where bacteria tend to accumulate. The process may also include fluoride treatment for added protection against cavities.
Regular teeth cleanings are crucial in maintaining good overall oral hygiene. While daily brushing and flossing at home is essential for keeping your smile healthy between visits, professional cleanings go above and beyond what we can achieve on our own.
How Often Should You Clean Your Teeth?
The answer may vary depending on individual needs, but generally, it is recommended to have professional teeth cleaning every six months. Regular dental cleanings help remove plaque and tartar buildup that cannot be effectively removed through regular brushing and flossing alone. This preventive measure can prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health issues. However, some individuals may require more frequent cleanings. People who have a history of gum disease or are prone to developing cavities may benefit from having their teeth cleaned every three to four months. Your dentist will assess your specific needs and provide personalized recommendations.
In addition to professional cleanings, it is crucial to maintain a consistent at-home oral hygiene routine. Brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily helps keep your teeth free from plaque buildup between dental visits. The frequency of teeth cleaning depends on various factors such as personal oral hygiene habits, overall health status, and any existing dental conditions. Consulting with your dentist will ensure that you receive the appropriate care tailored specifically to your unique needs. With proper maintenance and regular check-ups, you can keep your smile healthy and bright!
What Are the Benefits of Teeth Cleaning?
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for overall health, and one crucial aspect of this routine is regular teeth cleaning. Apart from the obvious benefit of having a brighter smile, teeth cleaning offers several other advantages that contribute to your dental and general well-being.
- Professional dental cleanings help remove plaque buildup on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film containing harmful bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease if left untreated. By removing this buildup during a cleaning session, you significantly reduce the risk of developing these conditions.
- Regular cleanings also allow dentists to detect any potential issues early on. Dental professionals are trained to identify signs of cavities, gum inflammation or recession, oral cancer symptoms, and more. Detecting problems in their initial stages enables prompt treatment before they worsen and become costlier to address.
- Maintaining good oral health through regular cleanings has been linked to better overall health outcomes. Studies have found associations between poor dental hygiene and various systemic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes complications, respiratory infections, and even premature birth in pregnant women.
- Fresh breath is another significant benefit of regular teeth cleaning. Tartar buildup can cause chronic bad breath due to trapped food particles attracting bacteria. Getting rid of this plaque ensures fresher breath for longer periods.
Now go ahead, give yourself the gift of a sparkling smile through regular teeth cleaning!
Covington Signature Dentistry, located at 27121 174th Place SE, Suite 202, Covington, WA 98042, offers the best dental care through our efficient dentists and modern technologies and facilities. Call us at (253) 638-9955 and book an appointment with the dentist to learn more about dental restorations and other dental services.
