All you Need to Know About General Dental Cleaning

General dental cleaning, also known as a dental prophylaxis or dental hygiene appointment, is a routine dental procedure aimed at maintaining oral health and preventing dental issues. It is typically performed by a licensed dental hygienist or dentist. Here's what you need to know about general dental cleaning:

Purpose:

The primary purpose of general dental cleaning is to remove plaque, tartar (calculus), and stains from the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and can lead to tooth decay and gum disease if not removed regularly. Over time, plaque can harden into tartar, which cannot be removed by regular brushing and flossing and requires professional cleaning.

Procedure:

During a general dental cleaning appointment, the dental hygienist or dentist will perform the following steps:

1. Physical Examination: They will first examine your mouth to assess your overall oral health and identify any potential issues.

2. Plaque and Tartar Removal: Using specialized instruments, the dental professional will carefully remove the plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth, especially in areas that are difficult to reach with regular brushing and flossing.

3. Cleaning and Polishing: After removing the plaque and tartar, the teeth are polished using a gritty toothpaste and a high-powered toothbrush or a rubber cup. This helps remove surface stains and gives your teeth a smooth, clean feeling.

4. Flossing: The dental professional will floss between your teeth to ensure that any remaining debris or plaque is removed from between the teeth and along the gumline.

5. Fluoride Treatment: In some cases, a fluoride treatment may be applied to help strengthen the teeth and prevent tooth decay.

Benefits: Regular dental cleanings offer several benefits:

1. Prevention of Dental Issues: By removing plaque and tartar, dental cleanings help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems.

2. Fresh Breath: Removing the buildup of bacteria and food particles can help improve bad breath.

3. Stain Removal: Cleaning and polishing can help remove surface stains from teeth, leading to a brighter smile.

4. Early Detection: Dental professionals can identify potential issues during the examination, such as cavities, gum inflammation, or oral cancer, allowing for early intervention and treatment.

Home Care:

Regular brushing and flossing at home are essential for maintaining oral health between dental cleanings. Proper oral hygiene practices can help prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar.

In summary, general dental cleaning is a vital part of maintaining good oral health. Regular cleanings can help prevent dental problems and contribute to a healthy, beautiful smile. It's important to follow your dentist's or dental hygienist's recommendations for cleaning frequency and home care to ensure the best possible oral health outcomes.

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Dental Cleaning, Implant Dentures, Wisdom Tooth Extraction, Gum Treatment and Same day Treatment, Emergency Visits.