If you have not had a teeth cleaning for a while, you may not recall what will take place. Like many patients, you may have some anxiety about visiting the dentist, but this does not have to be a scary visit. The more you understand about these appointments, the more at ease you can feel. You will also take charge of your oral wellness and overall well-being when you make these appointments a priority.
Dentists have set guidelines and recommendations about when patients should have examinations and teeth cleanings. Generally, people of all ages should come in for a cleaning and evaluation every six months. Even patients with a good oral health history should follow this pattern. Patients who are prone to getting cavities or who have a history of gum disease or abscesses should come in more often. The dentist can advise these patients when to make a cleaning appointment.
One of the consequences of not brushing or flossing thoroughly is that plaque can build up on and around the teeth. It is formed from food particles and saliva, and it will stay on teeth if the person does not brush regularly. Eventually, plaque can harden and turn into tartar, which causes gum disease and can even lead to tooth loss. The hygienist will use a dental tool to scrape away any plaque or tartar from between teeth and at the gumline.
Once the hygienist has removed any buildup, it will be time to clean the teeth. To do this, the hygienist will use a gritty toothpaste and apply it to both sides of every tooth. With an ultrasonic electric brush, the hygienist will clean the teeth. The paste is much different than what a patient would use at home.
The hygienist or an assistant next will floss the patient’s teeth. This can be done as a way to instruct the patient on how to floss more effectively. There may be bleeding on the gums; if this is the case, it means the patient is not flossing enough. The hygienist will rinse out the patient’s mouth as needed.
After this, the hygienist will do a fluoride treatment. This is more common to do for younger patients. Some treatments require the patient to swish the solution in their mouth. However, most fluorides go on a mouthpiece, which the patient keeps in the mouth for about a minute. The fluoride protects the teeth and fights against cavities.
A regular teeth cleaning can serve at least two purposes. The visits promote good oral health, and they help you keep the attractive smile that you want. If you get behind and do not go to the dentist’s office regularly, you may soon have excess buildup or tooth decay. To avoid these concerns, come to the dentist’s office every six months. Make your next appointment today.
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