For many people going in for a teeth cleaning procedure at a dental office can be dreadful. However, opting for professional teeth cleaning is a sure-shot way of ensuring good oral health.
Have you ever wondered why regular teeth cleaning appointments are so important and what exactly happens during these sessions? If you answered positively, keep reading ahead as we elaborate on this commonly done procedure.
Why do I need teeth cleaning treatment?
Our mouth is a host to millions of bacteria; while most of them are harmless and even essential, some, under the right condition, can cause diseases.
You may have noticed a slimy layer on top of your teeth every morning, which goes away after tooth brushing. This layer is known as a biofilm and contains bacteria and salivary products. At times, due to poor oral hygiene, this layer does not get removed and keeps accumulating, forming plaque.
Plaque houses the disease-causing bacteria, and the unremoved food debris gives them the energy source they need for proliferating. These bacteria metabolize sugars from the food we eat to release toxic and acidic byproducts responsible for dental ailments like dental decay and gum diseases. Slowly, if the plaque is not removed, it hardens to form calculus or tartar, further complicating oral health.
Teeth cleaning is performed to remove these bacterial deposits and prevent dental diseases. However, teeth cleaning procedures are also a form of treatment modality in cases where gum diseases have already occurred. Once the bacterial deposits are removed, it gives the gums a chance to heal and return to normal conditions.
What happens during a teeth cleaning sessions?
At Essex Family Dental, teeth cleaning procedure is generally performed by a dental hygienist.
Our dentist will first examine your oral cavity during your first visit. They will use a small mouth mirror and a probe to evaluate your teeth and gum health. If tartar deposits are found or signs of gum diseases are seen, you will be advised to go for complete teeth cleaning.
Next, a dental hygienist will also examine your mouth to see the extent of deposits. They will then begin the process of teeth cleaning with the help of dental scalers. They will remove the plaque and tartar deposits from the tooth surface, at and near the gum line. A mouth mirror is used to see the working area and evaluate the teeth being treated during the process. A higher amount of plaque and tartar accumulation will require more time for its proper removal.
When the dental hygienist has covered all the teeth, they will do another check for any residual deposits. Once done, they will use a gritty powdered paste to polish the surfaces of your teeth. This leaves your smile looking healthy and glowing. A professional dental cleaning can feel a little uncomfortable; however, special measures are taken to ensure that your visit is comfortable and pain-free.
If you have any more questions or would like to know more about our services, please reach out to us. The Essex Family Dental team will be there to assist you in your journey to a disease-free and healthy mouth.
