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Routine Dental Cleaning: The Importance of Dental Care & Teeth Cleaning from a Dental Hygienist
As a dental practice, we know that maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for overall health. One of the most critical aspects of maintaining oral hygiene is routine dental cleaning. A dental cleaning, also known as a prophylaxis, is a professional tooth cleaning performed by a dental hygienist. This article will cover everything you need to know about routine dental cleanings, including why they are essential, what to expect during a cleaning, and how often you should get them.
What is a Dental Cleaning?
A dental cleaning is a preventive treatment that removes plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth after you eat or drink. If left untreated, it can harden into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional. Routine cleanings remove any buildup of plaque and tartar, preventing gum disease and tooth decay.
Why are Routine Dental Cleanings Important?
Routine dental cleanings are essential because they help prevent gum disease, which is a leading cause of tooth loss. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gum tissue that can cause inflammation, bleeding gums, and eventual tooth loss. If left untreated, gum disease can also lead to other oral health issues and even affect your overall health. Dental research has linked gum disease to other health conditions such as heart disease and stroke, making preventive care even more important.
What to Expect During a Routine Dental Cleaning
During a routine dental cleaning, a dental hygienist will clean your teeth and gums using a variety of tools. They will use a small mirror to examine your teeth and check for any signs of gum disease, tooth decay, or other oral health issues. Next, they will use a scaler to remove any plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth and along your gum line. They will also use a gritty paste to polish your teeth and remove any leftover plaque.
In addition to cleaning your teeth, a dental hygienist will also perform an oral cancer screening and examine your gums for signs of bleeding or inflammation. If necessary, they may recommend further treatment, such as root planing, to remove tartar buildup below the gum line. Depending on your needs, a dental hygienist may also recommend a fluoride treatment to strengthen your tooth enamel and prevent cavities.
How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?
The American Dental Association recommends that you get a routine dental cleaning every six months. However, if you have a history of gum disease, tooth decay, or other oral health issues, you may need to get cleanings more frequently. Your dentist or dental hygienist can help determine the right frequency for your needs.
What Happens During a Deep Dental Cleaning?
A deep dental cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, is a more intensive cleaning procedure for patients with advanced gum disease. During a deep cleaning, a dental hygienist will use a local anesthetic to numb your gums and tooth roots. They will then use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar buildup from below your gum line. Finally, they will smooth out any rough spots on your tooth roots to prevent further buildup of tartar.
Preventive Care is Key
Routine dental cleanings and preventive care are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and preventing gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health issues. In addition to routine cleanings, it is important to practice proper brushing and flossing techniques at home to remove plaque and prevent cavities. Eating a healthy diet and avoiding sugary drinks can also help keep your teeth and gums healthy.
Dental Insurance and Routine Dental Cleanings
Many dental insurance plans cover routine dental cleanings as part of their preventive care coverage. It is important to check with your insurance provider to see what services are covered and what your out-of-pocket costs may be. If you do not have dental insurance, our practice offers affordable payment options and financing to make routine cleanings and other dental services accessible for everyone.
The Role of Dental Hygienists in Maintaining Good Oral Health
Dental hygienists play a critical role in maintaining good oral health. They are highly trained dental professionals who work closely with dentists to provide preventive care and treatment for patients. Dental hygienists perform routine dental cleanings, provide oral health education, and help patients develop healthy habits to prevent oral health issues.
At URBN Dental, our dental hygienists are passionate about providing high-quality care to our patients. They work with each patient to develop a customized treatment plan based on their individual needs and goals. Whether you need a routine cleaning or more advanced periodontal treatment, our hygienists are here to help.
The Importance of Regular Dental Exams
In addition to routine cleanings, regular dental exams are also an essential part of maintaining good oral health. During a dental exam, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums for any signs of oral health issues, such as cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer. They may also take x-rays to get a closer look at your teeth and underlying bone structure.
Regular dental exams can help detect oral health issues early when they are easier to treat. If left untreated, these issues can lead to more severe problems and even tooth loss. By getting regular exams, you can maintain your oral health and prevent more serious problems from developing.
In Conclusion
Routine dental cleanings are a critical part of maintaining good oral hygiene and overall health. They help prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health issues while promoting healthy teeth and gums. By getting routine dental cleanings, practicing good oral hygiene habits at home, and getting regular dental exams, you can maintain your smile and prevent tooth loss. At URBN Dental, we are committed to providing high-quality dental care to our patients. Contact us today to schedule your routine cleaning or to learn more about our dental services.