What is Teeth Cleaning?
Maintaining our oral health is a huge piece of maintaining our general health. Studies repeatedly show that oral health is directly linked to general health. Although it seems simple enough to brush, floss, and use mouthwash, there is a lot to consider when it comes to properly maintaining one’s oral health. This is where dentistry comes in. Dentists play an important role in maintaining oral health. Read on to learn more about the field of dentistry and how dentists support teeth cleaning.
What is dentistry?
Dentistry is the branch of medicine focused on the diagnosis, prevention, treatment, and management of oral health. Dentistry involves the care of teeth, gums, and other structures in the mouth. Dentists are trained to identify and address a wide range of dental issues, from routine cleanings and checkups to complex procedures like fillings, root canals, and even oral surgery. Beyond just treating tooth-related problems, dentistry also plays a key role in preventing oral diseases through regular exams, education on good oral hygiene, and preventive treatments like fluoride applications and sealants.
What is a teeth cleaning?
Teeth cleanings are a core function of dentistry and are meant to compliment and assist a regular oral hygiene routine. Brushing, flossing, and mouthwash can take care of a lot of the plaque and tartar buildup that occur in the mouth, but not all of it. If plaque and tartar build up too much, it can cause a lot of other more serious issues, especially gum disease. Teeth cleanings performed by a dentist are regular visits, usually every 6 months, where the dentist uses tools and techniques to clear away plaque and tartar that is not cleared away from regular oral care.
What happens during a teeth cleaning?
A typical teeth cleaning involves several steps. They are all designed to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from a person’s teeth. They usually begin with an examination, where the dentist or hygienist checks the overall oral health of the patient and looks for signs of cavities, gum disease, or other potential issues. Following the initial examination a typical teeth cleaning involves:
- Scaling. Scaling is the process of removing plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth, especially from the areas below the gumline. Scaling uses special to scrape away the plaque and tartar brushing and flossing typically can’t.
- Surface Cleaning. Surface cleaning is the process of using a gritty toothpaste and a high-powered electric toothbrush to thoroughly clean the surfaces of the teeth. This process not only removes plaque but also leaves the teeth feeling smooth and polished.
- Flossing during a teeth cleaning is just like flossing at home. The hygienist will floss between the teeth to ensure that any remaining plaque or debris is removed. This step is essential because flossing can reach areas that the brush can’t, particularly along the gumline and in between teeth.
- Fluoride treatments are a key component of a teeth cleaning. Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. This treatment typically involves the application of a fluoride gel or foam that sits on the teeth for a few minutes. Fluoride is particularly beneficial for people who are at higher risk for cavities or who don’t receive enough fluoride from their drinking water.