Professional Dental Cleanings And Why You Need Them
Posted on: 26 June 2023
Dentists often perform dental cleanings as routine services. The procedures involve the removal of plaque and tartar from your teeth, both above and below the gum line.
Here is a bit of information about professional dental cleanings and why you need them.
What Is a Professional Dental Cleaning?
A dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a preventive treatment that aims to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth. Plaque is a sticky substance made of bacteria, biofilm, and particles of food. It forms on your teeth every day.
If plaque is not removed through brushing and flossing, the sticky material can harden into tartar, a yellowish or brownish, chalky substance that sticks to your teeth. Tartar can cause inflammation and infections in your gums. However, tartar cannot be brushed away; it can only be removed by a dental professional using special instruments.
Why Do You Need Your Teeth Professionally Cleaned Regularly?
Regular cleanings are essential for the health of your teeth and gums. Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to dental issues, such as cavities, gingivitis, and periodontitis.
Moreover, dental cleanings improve the appearance of your smile by removing stains and making your teeth look brighter and cleaner. The cleanings also prevent bad breath caused by the bacteria in your mouth.
How Do Dental Professionals Clean Your Teeth?
The cleanings are usually performed by dental hygienists, trained professionals who specialize in oral hygiene. The professionals clean the teeth using standard or deep cleaning methods.
Standard Cleanings
You normally receive standard cleanings at least twice a year as part of your regular dental checkups. A standard cleaning involves the scaling and polishing of your teeth.
Scaling is the removal of plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth above the gumline using a manual scraper or an ultrasonic device. Polishing is the smoothing and shining of your teeth using a rotating brush and a paste.
Deep Cleanings
Dental professionals may perform deep cleanings if you have signs of gum disease, such as bleeding, receding, or swollen gums; or deep pockets between your teeth and gums.
Deep cleaning involves scaling and root planing. Root planing uses a special tool called a curette to remove plaque and tartar from the roots of your teeth, which lie below the gumline. Root planing also smooths the surface of your tooth roots to help your gums reattach to your teeth and eliminate the deep pockets.
If you would like to schedule a professional dental cleaning, contact a dentist in your local area.
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