If you think brushing and flossing at home are enough to keep your teeth in tip-top shape, think again. While your daily routine plays a big part in maintaining oral health, there’s something even more essential: professional teeth cleaning. But what exactly happens during a professional cleaning, and why is it so important for your dental health?
Let’s break it down.
What Happens During a Professional Teeth Cleaning?
Professional teeth cleaning is a routine procedure that goes beyond what your toothbrush and floss can achieve. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Initial Checkup
Before the cleaning begins, your dentist or dental hygienist will conduct a brief oral examination. This helps spot any potential issues, like cavities or gum disease, that may need attention. It’s a quick check but an important one to ensure everything looks good before moving forward.
2. Plaque and Tartar Removal
Even with the most diligent brushing and flossing habits, it’s impossible to remove all the plaque from your teeth at home. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar, and once it forms, it can only be removed by a dental professional cleaning. Using special tools, your dentist will remove the plaque and tartar, especially in those hard-to-reach areas between your teeth and along the gumline.
3. Deep Cleaning with Gritty Toothpaste
After the tartar is removed, your dentist will use a high-powered electric toothbrush with a gritty toothpaste. This helps polish your teeth and remove any leftover plaque, leaving your teeth feeling smooth and fresh.
4. Flossing Like a Pro
Even if you floss daily, nothing beats a professional flossing session. Your dentist will expertly clean between your teeth, getting rid of any leftover particles or debris.
5. Rinsing and Fluoride Treatment
Finally, the last step usually involves rinsing to remove any leftover debris. Some dentists will also apply a fluoride treatment, which helps strengthen your enamel and protect your teeth from cavities.
Why Is Professional Teeth Cleaning Important?
You might wonder, “Is professional cleaning really necessary if I brush and floss every day?” The answer is yes. Here’s why:
1. Prevents Gum Disease
Plaque buildup can lead to gum disease, which starts with inflammation and can eventually progress to more severe problems like tooth loss. Regular cleanings remove the plaque and tartar that cause gum disease, keeping your gums healthy.
2. Fresher Breath
Bad breath, or halitosis, is often caused by bacteria hiding in the nooks and crannies of your teeth. Professional cleanings help eliminate the bacteria that contribute to unpleasant odors, leaving your breath fresher.
3. Brightens Your Smile
Coffee, tea, and other foods can stain your teeth over time, but professional cleanings help remove surface stains, giving your smile a brighter, cleaner look.
4. Detects Dental Issues Early
During your cleaning, your dentist can catch early signs of problems like cavities, gum disease, or even oral cancer. Early detection means easier treatment, and you can avoid more costly procedures down the road.
“Regular dental visits are important because they help to keep your teeth and gums healthy.”
Is the Teeth Cleaning Cost Worth It?
Many people worry about the teeth cleaning cost, but when you think about the long-term benefits, it’s a small investment in your health. Preventing cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues saves you money on more expensive treatments later on. Plus, clean, healthy teeth are priceless!
Professional teeth cleanings do more than just leave your mouth feeling fresh—they play a key role in your overall dental health. From removing plaque to catching early signs of trouble, these cleanings ensure your teeth and gums stay in great shape for years to come.
So, schedule your appointment at Rathi Dental Center to keep your smile strong and healthy!