what's teeth cleaning

What's Teeth Cleaning?

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to preventing cavity, gum disease, and tooth loss. Regular brushing and flossing are the basics of dental care, but you may need a professional teeth cleaning to get rid of plaque and tartar buildup that can lead to dental problems. In this article, we will explore what teeth cleaning is, why it is important, and what happens during a typical cleaning session.

What is Teeth Cleaning?

Teeth cleaning is a dental treatment that involves removing plaque, tartar, and other debris from teeth using specialized tools. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and can harden into tartar, which cannot be removed with brushing and flossing alone. A dental hygienist or dentist performs teeth cleaning, which may involve scaling, polishing, and fluoride treatment.

Why is Teeth Cleaning Important?

Regular teeth cleaning can prevent dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Plaque and tartar buildup can irritate the gums, leading to inflammation and bleeding, which can progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease that can cause tooth loss and affect overall health. Teeth cleaning can also remove surface stains and improve the appearance of teeth.

What Happens During a Teeth Cleaning Session?

A teeth cleaning session typically starts with a dental examination to check for any dental issues. The dental hygienist or dentist will use a mirror to inspect teeth and gums for signs of decay, cavities, and gum disease. Then, the cleaning process begins with scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartar from teeth surfaces and below the gum line. This process may involve using an ultrasonic scaler and a hand scaler to scrape off the buildup. Scaling can be uncomfortable, but local anesthesia may be used to numb the area.

After scaling, the teeth are polished using a dental polisher and a special prophylaxis paste to remove surface stains and give teeth a smooth, shiny surface. Finally, fluoride treatment may be applied to strengthen teeth and prevent cavities. The fluoride treatment comes in the form of a gel, foam, or varnish, which is applied to the teeth for a few minutes.

How Often Should You Get Teeth Cleaning?

The frequency of teeth cleaning depends on individual needs and health factors. Generally, dentists recommend getting teeth cleaning every six months. However, people with higher risk of dental problems may need more frequent cleaning, such as those with gum disease, diabetes, or a weakened immune system. Children may also need more frequent cleaning, especially if they have braces or dental issues.

Conclusion

Teeth cleaning is an essential part of dental care that can help prevent dental problems and maintain a healthy smile. Regular brushing and flossing at home are crucial, but professional teeth cleaning can remove plaque and tartar buildup that cannot be removed by ordinary oral hygiene. A typical teeth cleaning session involves scaling, polishing, and fluoride treatment, which can restore the teeth's natural shine and strength. Consult with your dentist to determine the frequency of teeth cleaning that suits your needs.