Regular Dental Cleanings: What Happens in the Dental Chair?
Regular dental cleanings are important for the whole family. However, it can be nerve-racking for some individuals to visit their dentist in Clermont. Young children, as well as adults who have not seen the dentist in many years, may not know what to expect. Understanding what happens during a routine cleaning can help alleviate any unease that you or your child may feel leading up to your appointment.
Routine Cleaning Procedure
Most local dentists recommend dental cleanings approximately every six months. A standard cleaning takes about 30 minutes. Routine dental cleanings generally involve the following steps:
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Physical Exam
The dental cleaning procedure generally begins with a physical exam of the mouth. The hygienist will use a small mirror to check the condition of your teeth and gums to look for signs of decay, gingivitis, or other potential problems. The hygienist may also ask you to close your mouth to check your bite. Any findings from the exam will be shared with your dentist in Clermont FL, who may also perform a physical examination.
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Dental X-rays
Dentists generally recommend dental X-rays once a year to obtain a more in-depth picture of your teeth and what dental work you’ve had in the past. With dental X-rays, you can see wisdom teeth, bonding, fillings, root canals, and more. As dental X-rays do expose the patient to a small amount of radiation, you’ll be given a lead apron to wear to keep you safe.
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Plaque and Tartar Removal
The next step in a routine dental cleaning is the removal of plaque and tartar from the teeth. Using a small mirror to guide them, the dental hygienist will use a scaler to scrape stuck-on plaque and tartar in between the teeth and around the gum line. In some cases, an ultrasonic scaler will be used to achieve a deeper clean. Ultrasonic scalers vibrate and spray water.
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Flossing
After plaque and tartar have been removed, your dental hygienist will floss your teeth. Similar to how you floss at home, your hygienist will floss between your teeth and along the gum line. This process helps to remove any lingering plaque.
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Polishing
During a routine dental cleaning, your dental hygienist will polish your teeth. This is done using an electric toothpolishing brush and gritty toothpaste. Polishing helps remove leftover plaque from the teeth, as well as scrub away surface stains to give the teeth a smooth and shiny appearance.
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Preventive Treatments
Depending on your age and the condition of your teeth and gums, your Clermont dental office may recommend preventive treatments. If you have back teeth that contain deep grooves, dental sealants can protect these areas from accumulating harmful bacteria. If you want to reduce your risk of cavities and strengthen your enamel, consider fluoride treatments.
Benefits of Regular Cleanings
While skipping routine cleanings may not seem like a big deal, failure to undergo regular cleanings can result in costly treatments in the future. Some key benefits of regular cleanings include
- Reduced risk of oral health problems. According to the CDC, 52 percent of children aged 6 to 8, 57 percent of adolescents aged 12 to 19, and 90 percent of adults aged 20 and older have had at least one cavity. Regular cleanings reduce the risk of oral health issues like tooth decay and gum disease.
- Maintain fresh breath. Plaque and tartar buildup can result in chronic bad breath. Undergoing routine cleanings can help keep bad breath at bay by removing toxic microbes.
- Improve whole body health and wellness. The link between oral health and whole-body health has long been recognized. Regular dental cleanings can help reduce your risk of dementia, stroke, and heart disease.
Contact Our Clermont Family Dentistry Today
Hancock Village Dental is a family-owned and operated practice that delivers high-quality dental services to children and adults of all ages. For more information about our preventative, restorative, or cosmetic services, or to schedule an appointment, contact us today at 352-989-5815.
