Routine dental cleanings are important to maintaining a healthy smile and supporting overall health. Different types of dental cleanings cater to varying oral health needs, all with the common goal of eradicating harmful bacteria and mitigating the risk of dental complications.
Whether you keep a stringent six-month dental visit schedule or have lapsed in your dental care, understanding the procedures involved in a dental cleaning can greatly alleviate any concerns and prepare you for what to expect. At Elite Dental Aesthetics, we keep you informed and proactive about your dental health and ensure your smile remains bright and healthy.
Types of Dental Cleanings
There are various types of dental cleanings that suit individual oral health needs, but ultimately, they all work to eliminate harmful bacteria and decrease the risk of dental problems:
- Prophylaxis: This preventive cleaning is for individuals with generally healthy teeth and gums and is the most frequently performed cleaning.
- Gross Debridement: For those who haven’t visited a dentist in more than a year or have significant plaque accumulation, gross debridement is recommended. It is more extensive than a regular prophylaxis and helps identify any previously undetected dental issues.
- Scaling and Root Planing: Known as deep cleaning, this procedure targets the area below the gum line to remove bacteria and calcified tartar from the roots of the teeth. It’s typically for patients with mild to moderate periodontitis and involves local anesthesia to minimize discomfort during the cleaning.
The American Dental Association advises scheduling regular dental cleanings as recommended by your dentist. While many individuals may need these cleanings every six months, the frequency can vary depending on your specific oral health requirements.
What Happens During a Professional Dental Cleaning?
A dental cleaning typically includes scaling and polishing your teeth. Based on individual needs, Dr. Adams or a hygienist might suggest additional diagnostic and preventive measures.
Scaling
This involves using handheld tools known as scalers to remove plaque and tartar from the exterior of your teeth. Sometimes, an ultrasonic scaler, which uses vibrations and a water spray, may be used. You might notice scraping sounds, but this process is usually pain-free.
Polishing
After scaling, your teeth may be polished with a soft rubber cup and a special paste or pumice to clean off biofilm and minimize plaque accumulation, all while protecting your enamel.
Preventive Treatments
Depending on your specific dental health needs, additional preventive services such as dental sealants or fluoride treatments might be recommended. Sealants are useful for protecting back teeth with deep grooves from decay, while fluoride treatments strengthen enamel and lower the risk of cavities. These treatments are beneficial for both children and adults.
Dental X-Rays
The frequency of dental X-rays can range from every six months to three years, depending on your dental health status. If you require close monitoring of a particular condition, you might need X-rays more often. These are crucial for diagnosing and treating various dental issues.
Treatment Recommendations
Should your dentist or hygienist detect any problems like cavities or gum disease during your cleaning, they will thoroughly discuss the possible treatment options with you.
The Benefits of Regular Teeth Cleanings
Maintaining a routine of regular teeth cleanings holds a multitude of benefits that go beyond just a brighter smile. The following are some compelling reasons why keeping these appointments is essential for both your oral and overall health:
- Prevention of Gum Disease: Regular cleanings help remove plaque buildup, which is a key factor in the development of periodontal (gum) disease. Early detection and removal of plaque can prevent gum disease from advancing and causing more severe health issues.
- Early Detection: During a cleaning, Dr. Adams can spot signs of problems such as cavities, broken fillings, and other dental issues that may be invisible to the naked eye. Early detection means easier and less costly treatments.
- Prevention of Bad Breath: Persistent bad breath, or halitosis, can often be a result of poor dental health. Routine cleanings remove the plaque, tartar, and bacteria that contribute to bad breath.
- Brighter, Whiter Smile: Stains from coffee, tea, wine, and tobacco can dull your teeth. A professional cleaning polishes the teeth and helps remove these stains, leaving you with a whiter and more confident smile.
- Boost Overall Health: Studies have linked poor oral health to various health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Regular dental cleanings may reduce your risk of these conditions by keeping your gums and teeth healthy.
- Save Money in the Long Run: By preventing dental problems that can become complex and expensive to treat, regular cleanings are a proactive investment in your health, potentially saving you significant amounts of money over time.
Speak with the dental professionals at Elite Dental Aesthetics for specific information regarding your unique oral health and how we can help keep your teeth clean.
Schedule a Teeth Cleaning Today With Elite Dental Aesthetics
At Elite Dental Aesthetics, we prioritize the importance of regular dental cleanings as a cornerstone of maintaining your overall health and well-being. Our team in Reno offers a range of cleaning services tailored to meet your unique dental needs, from routine prophylaxis to more advanced treatments like scaling and root planing. We use the latest technology to ensure your visits are comfortable and effective, helping you achieve a clean, confident smile.
Don’t wait to take charge of your dental health — whether you’re due for a routine cleaning or need more specialized care, we’re here to provide the support you need. Contact us today at (775) 200-1956 or complete our contact form to schedule your next appointment and experience the Elite Dental difference.
