Haven’t you heard that the human mouth is dirtier than a dog’s mouth ? It is the dirtiest part of our body, and so therefore, it is vital for your overall health to have professional cleanings. They can be quick, painless, and easy if you maintain regular appointments. If you haven’t been to the dentist in a while or are looking for a new provider, Atlanta Smiles is the office for you ! Let’s go over dental cleaning information and how long a teeth cleaning may take so you’re ready to go for your next checkup.
What is a Teeth Cleaning?
A dental cleaning is a routine procedure usually done by a dental hygienist to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums. It involves a series of procedures aimed at improving oral health, such as polishing the teeth, flossing, and rinsing.
During a dental cleaning, your dental hygienist and dentist will also conduct an oral examination with xrays to check for any signs of gum disease, cavities or other oral health issues. This preventative treatment is essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
Regular dental cleanings help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems by ensuring that your teeth and gums are free from harmful plaque and tartar (calculus) buildup.
Why Regular Dental Cleanings Are Important
Regular dental cleanings are crucial for maintaining good oral and overall health. They help prevent gum disease, cavities, and other dental issues by removing plaque and tartar buildup that cannot be removed by regular brushing and flossing alone.
Furthermore, dental cleanings allow the dentist to detect any early signs of oral health problems, like oral cancer, cavities, pathology which can be addressed before they develop into more serious issues. This preventative care helps you avoid costly and invasive dental procedures in the future.
By scheduling routine dental cleanings, you’re taking a proactive step to your entire health! The mouth is the window to the body, and the bacteria in your mouth can get into your blood stream, your heart and your brain. Gum disease has been linked to low birth weight babies, diabetes, dementia, and even heart disease.
What to Expect During Your Teeth Cleaning
Oral Examination
During the oral examination, the dental hygienist or dentist will inspect your teeth and gums for any signs of decay, gum disease, or other issues that you might not be aware of
Plaque and Tartar Removal
Plaque and tartar removal is a crucial part of the teeth cleaning process. Plaque and tartar buildup is completely normal over time, but it can become unhealthy if it’s not cleaned off of the teeth. The dental hygienist uses specialized tools to carefully remove plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of your teeth.
By effectively removing plaque and tartar, your dental hygienist helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health problems. Regular plaque and tartar removal during dental cleanings is vital for maintaining healthy teeth and gums and preventing dental issues in the future.
Teeth Polishing
Teeth polishing is performed after plaque and tartar removal to smoothen the tooth surfaces and remove surface stains. This process helps make your teeth look cleaner and brighter. By polishing the teeth, the dental hygienist enhances the overall appearance and brightness of your smile and creates a smoother surface that is less prone to bacterial buildup.
How Long Does the Teeth Cleaning Take?
The duration of a dental cleaning can vary depending on several factors, including the extent of plaque and tartar buildup, the thoroughness of the cleaning required, and whether any additional treatments, such as fluoride application, are included.
On average, a standard dental cleaning appointment typically lasts between 45 minutes to an hour. However, if it has been a while since your last cleaning or if there are specific oral health issues to address, the cleaning may take longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to do anything to prepare for a dental cleaning?
Prior to your dental cleaning appointment, it’s recommended to brush and floss your teeth as you normally would. You may also want to inform the dental team of any specific oral health issues or concerns you have.
How often should I have teeth cleanings?
The American Dental Association recommends having regular dental cleanings every six months to maintain optimal oral health. However, the frequency of cleanings may vary based on individual oral health needs and risk factors.
People with a history of gum disease or other oral health issues require quarterly cleanings to prevent the colonization of bacteria and maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Consult with your dentist to determine the recommended frequency of dental cleanings that best suits your oral health needs and helps prevent dental problems in the long run.
How much do dental cleanings cost?
The cost of dental cleanings can vary depending on factors such as the level of disease, how long it has been since your last cleaning, your age and the extent of the cleaning required, and whether any additional treatments are included in the service.
Many dental benefit plans cover the cost of routine cleanings as part of preventive care. If you don’t have dental benefits, which more and more people don’t, it won’t break your bank account! Think about what you spend a year on your hair appointments, and there is no such thing as hair insurance!
Take Pride in Your Smile with Regular Dental Cleanings
Investing in regular preventive dental cleanings and checkups can help prevent serious and costly problems down the road. Remember, Ignore your teeth, and they will go away!
At Atlanta Smiles, our dental experts are dedicated to high-quality, personalized patient care that ensures you and your teeth look and feel your best. Dr. Giesler, a former hygienist herself, and her team will take good care of you! Contact us to schedule a routine dental cleaning today.