Dental Cleaning: How Often Should You Get It, and How is it Done?

If you have been to a dental office, you’ve probably heard that you need professional teeth cleaning to reduce the risk of gum disease. But, two questions often arise:

• Is tooth cleaning a necessary procedure?
• How frequently should professional teeth cleaning be done?
  We do an excellent job of keeping the teeth and gums clean. However, plaques can still build up and accumulate, which increases the risk of decay and gum infection.

For many years, the practice has been to get professional cleaning twice a year. Is this necessary, or can you get teeth cleaning annually?

Is Once-a-year Tooth Cleaning Enough?

Yes. According to recent research, once-a-year dental cleaning is enough to prevent gum disease and decay. But, this only applies if you have no risk factors that can cause gum disease.

If you are predisposed to decay, you need to visit the hygienist or dentist at least twice a year. The risk factors of gum disease and decay include diabetes, smoking, and genetics.

Why Do You Need Regular Cleaning?

Professional teeth cleaning is recommended because it offers great benefits like:

• It leaves our teeth looking bright. The dentist will remove the stains that dull your teeth, and you will get a brighter smile.
• It prevents decay and gum disease that may cause tooth loss
• Detects dental problems early before they become a problem

If the dentist identifies a serious problem during the cleaning process, he may recommend necessary procedures to preserve your teeth and oral health.

Is Regular Teeth Cleaning Similar to Deep Cleaning?

No. Deep cleaning is different from routine professional teeth cleaning. The routine cleaning process involves removing plaques accumulated on the teeth. Deep cleaning, on the other hand, removes the tartar from underneath the gum line. And, it is usually the first line of treatment of gum disease, and it also involves root planning. This is the process where the dentist attaches the gums to the teeth.

The process does not hurt but may cause slight discomfort, and the dentist will apply a protective gel on the gums.

Deep cleaning can cause nerve damage and receding gums. Your teeth are less likely to fall out after deep cleaning, but you may experience tooth pain, sensitivity, and infection because of the exposed roots.

What Happens During the Teeth Cleaning Process?

The teeth cleaning process is painless, and it includes:

• Physical exam

Before the teeth cleaning is done, the dentist will first do a physical assessment. It is, however, worth noting that exam is not always done with teeth cleaning.
Moreover, you may schedule your cleaning and exam on different days.

The dentist will use a small mirror to examine around the teeth and gums for any signs of inflammation or other problems. If there is any problem, the dentist will first perform the necessary treatment before proceeding.

• Remove the plaque buildup

The teeth cleaning is usually done by a hygienist who will use a small mirror and a scaler to remove the tartar between your teeth and gum line. The process is not painful, but you may feel the pressure of scraping.

• Brushing

A high-powered electric brush is used to brush the teeth. The dentist will use toothpaste with a gritty consistency to gently scrub the teeth. The process is safe and does not cause the teeth to wear out if used once or twice a year.

• Expert flossing and rinsing

Professional flossing is done to locate any other potential trouble spots like gum bleeding. The hygienist will then rinse the teeth to get rid of any debris left.

• Fluoride treatment

This is the final step of the teeth cleaning process, and it involves applying fluoride varnish, gel, or foam on the teeth. Fluoride strengthens the enamel and makes it less prone to develop cavities.

Final Thoughts

Professional teeth cleaning can be done once a year if you are not at risk of developing gums disease or cavities.
Visit Brookstone Dental Care for an assessment and professional teeth cleaning.