Inside the Dental Chair: What to Expect During Routine Cleanings

Are you preparing for a visit to your dentist in Clermont? You may be wondering what you should expect during a routine cleaning. Whether it’s your first time going to the dentist or you haven’t been in a while, knowing what to expect in the dental chair can help ease any fear or anxiety about the process. Let’s look at the typical steps involved in dental cleaning.

Steps Involved in a Routine Dental Cleaning

While many people are not excited about the dentist, this occasional visit can significantly benefit your oral and overall health. There are just a few simple steps involved in a routine cleaning:

1. Health History

Your routine cleaning will generally begin with a health history. Front desk staff may ask you to fill out new patient paperwork or update your existing paperwork if you are an established patient.

You may be asked to answer general questions about your oral and overall health, such as what medications you are taking, if you have any allergies or medical conditions, and if you engage in habits like smoking.

Before cleaning, your hygienist may ask if you’ve been experiencing any recent oral health problems. These could range from teeth grinding at night to sensitive teeth.

2. Dental X-Rays

Radiographs (X-rays) refer to images of your teeth that local dentists use to evaluate a patient’s oral health. While dental X-rays use a low level of radiation to capture detailed pictures of the interior of the gums and teeth, they are considered safe for most patients.

For protection, a lead vest is placed across your lap and chest. The X-ray machine is then positioned using various techniques to get different views of your mouth.

3. Teeth Cleaning

A dental hygienist performs most teeth cleanings. The hygienist begins by examining your teeth and gums for signs of problems, such as inflammation, visible cavities, or possible infections.

Next, plaque and tartar are removed using a scaler and a small mirror. The hygienist works from one tooth to the next, scraping soft plaque and hardened tartar from tooth surfaces and the gum line.

Once plaque and tartar have been eliminated, the hygienist will brush your teeth with a high-powered electric brush and gritty toothpaste. You’ll choose between toothpaste flavors, such as mint and bubblegum. This helps remove any leftover debris and gives the teeth an excellent polish.

Expert flossing is the next step in the process. Your hygienist will gently clean between your teeth to remove any leftover plaque. You can also get pointers on how to floss like an expert at home.

Finally, the hygienist will have you rinse your mouth. This will help get rid of any leftover toothpaste or debris that may be lingering from the previous steps.

4. Sealants

Young patients can greatly benefit from finishing off their dental cleaning with sealants. This thin, protective coating creates a barrier between cavity-causing bacteria and the chewing surfaces of your back teeth. They are generally applied to the molars and premolars, and once the sealant material is cured and hardened, it can last up to 10 years or more. They can be used to protect both baby teeth and permanent teeth.

How Long Does a Dental Cleaning Take on Average?

The length of time that a dental cleaning takes can depend on several factors, such as the condition of the patient’s teeth. However, an average cleaning takes between 30 minutes and one hour.

In some instances, your Clermont dental practice may recommend a deep cleaning, also referred to as scaling and root planing. You may qualify for this procedure if you have severe bacteria buildup under the gum line or periodontal bone.

Schedule Your Next Cleaning with Hancock Village Dental

Ideally, you should see your dentist in Clermont, FL, about every six months for a routine exam and cleaning. Regular cleanings can help prevent bad breath, eliminate gum disease and cavities, and lower your risk of stroke, dementia, and heart disease. Call 352-989-5815 to connect with Hancock Village Dental today.