A dental cleaning is a professional cleaning you receive from a dentist or dental hygienist. Most cleanings take only 30 minutes. Cleanings should be performed every six months to prevent excessive plaque buildup. Plaque left untreated can lead to unhealthy gums and tooth decay.
What Is A Dental Cleaning?
A dental cleaning is a procedure that removes plaque and tartar from teeth. These substances cannot be removed by simply brushing or flossing, which is why routine visits to the dentist are recommended. During a dental cleaning, the hygienist will use special tools to gently scrape away any buildup from the teeth. The patient will receive tips on how to maintain good oral hygiene at home between visits. Regular dental cleanings can help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health concerns.
At-home dental care is just as important as regular dental cleanings. In addition to brushing twice a day and flossing daily, patients should use ADA-approved mouthwash to rinse their mouths after each meal. Patients can also use an antiseptic mouth rinse as recommended by their dentist or orthodontist.
When Should I Get A Dental Cleaning?
It’s recommended that you get a dental cleaning at least twice a year, or once every six months. If it’s been a while since your last appointment with the dentist, you should request an appointment right away. That way, we can clean your teeth and detect any developing issues early on. You should continue to schedule appointments every six months to keep your mouth healthy and prevent serious issues.
If you’re seeing your dentist for a routine checkup, we will perform an oral cancer screening and examine your gums to make sure that they’re healthy and free of infection. We will also check your teeth for tooth decay and look for signs of teeth grinding, which can contribute to serious oral health problems later on. By visiting us regularly, you can prevent many major health issues from occurring in the future.
Your dentist can also recommend lifestyle changes that will help you maintain good dental health. For example, if you often snack on sugary foods and drinks, you may be at a higher risk of developing gum disease. If you or your child has a thumb-sucking habit, it can cause the teeth to come in crooked and eventually shift out of place. Children who consume a lot of sugar are at an increased risk of developing cavities. By watching what you eat and drink and educating your kids about proper oral hygiene, you can help to prevent future problems and maintain a healthy mouth.
To learn more, visit Georgetown Cosmetic Dentistry at 2440 M Street, NW, Suite 328, Washington, DC 20037, or call (202) 785-4141 for the best dental care.