Taking care of your teeth goes beyond brushing and flossing daily. Regular dental cleanings play a vital role in keeping your mouth healthy. They are not just about making your teeth look good; they are crucial for oral health.

 

What Are Dental Cleanings?

A dental cleaning, or dental prophylaxis, is a professional cleaning procedure performed by a dentist or dental hygienist. During this process, the dental hygienist removes plaque and tartar from your teeth. These cleanings typically occur every six months. However, your dentist might recommend a different schedule based on your needs.
 

Benefits of Regular Dental Cleanings

One of the most significant benefits of dental cleanings is the prevention of cavities and gum disease. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, constantly forms on your teeth. If not removed, it can harden into tartar. Only a dental professional can effectively remove tartar. Regular cleanings help prevent tartar buildup, which can lead to cavities and gum disease.

Dental cleanings also help prevent bad breath. Persistent bad breath, or halitosis, often stems from plaque and tartar buildup. By keeping your teeth clean, you can maintain fresh breath and avoid embarrassment.

Additionally, dental cleanings can help detect oral health issues early. Your dentist or hygienist will examine your mouth for signs of problems like cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. Early detection allows for more straightforward and effective treatment.
 

The Cleaning Process

The dental cleaning process usually starts with a physical examination. Your dental hygienist will use a small mirror to check your teeth and gums for issues. This step ensures your mouth is healthy and ready for cleaning.

Next, they will remove plaque and tartar using a scaler. You will hear scraping sounds, but this is normal. The more tartar you have, the longer this step will take. Regular cleanings make this process quicker and more comfortable.

After removing the tartar, they brush your teeth with a high-powered electric brush. This step is called polishing and helps remove any remaining tartar. The gritty toothpaste used in this step scrubs your teeth gently, leaving them smooth and shiny.

Flossing comes next. The hygienist will floss between your teeth to remove leftover debris. This professional flossing gets deep between your teeth and spots you might miss during your regular flossing at home.

Finally, you will rinse your mouth to remove debris. Sometimes, your dentist will apply a fluoride treatment. This treatment helps protect your teeth against cavities for several months.
 

The Role of Fluoride

Fluoride is essential for dental health as it fortifies tooth enamel, enhancing its resistance to the acids produced by plaque bacteria and sugars, which helps prevent tooth decay. Fluoride treatments are quick and painless, often applied as a gel or varnish during cleaning.
 

How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?

Most dentists recommend getting a dental cleaning every six months. However, some people might need cleanings more frequently. If you have a history of gum disease, cavities, or other oral health issues, your dentist might suggest more frequent visits.
 

What Happens If You Skip Dental Cleanings?

Skipping dental cleanings can lead to several problems. Plaque and tartar can build up, leading to cavities and gum disease. Gum disease, if untreated, can progress to periodontitis, a more severe disease that can result in tooth loss.

Going to the dentist for cleanings keeps your mouth healthy. It stops tooth decay, gum problems, and bad breath. The cleaning is simple but works well. So, brush and floss at home and get regular dental cleanings to keep your smile healthy for life.

For more on dental cleanings, visit MAC Family Dentistry. Our office is in Mandeville, Louisiana. Call (985) 238-3797 to book an appointment today.