Dental cleanings, also called dental prophylaxis, are cleanings provided by a dentist or dental hygienist. They involve removing plaque and tartar from the teeth in order to prevent cavities and gingivitis.
Plaque is a biofilm that accumulates on the teeth that contain bacteria leading to gum inflammation. Regular dental cleanings remove this plaque and prevent cavities and gum disease.
How often should dental cleanings be performed?
Dental cleanings performed by a dental professional should be performed twice a year. Scheduling your dental cleanings every six months can help prevent the development of gum disease.
During the cleaning, a dental professional removes dental plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth, as well as polishes them.
How are dental cleanings performed?
A dental cleaning begins with the dental team polishing the teeth. This involves using a motorized brush with toothpaste to gently polish the teeth. Next, the dental team will floss between all of the teeth. Once complete, the dental team will use an ultrasonic scaler to scale the teeth. The ultrasonic scaler uses vibrations to break up and remove plaque and tartar. Once the teeth are cleaned, the dental team will polish the teeth again, and patients may go home or continue with their appointment.
Dental cleanings are an important preventive measure. The dental team will remove plaque and tartar from difficult-to-reach areas, and this reduces a patient’s risk of developing cavities. This dental procedure also helps patients maintain healthy gums.
What are the benefits of dental cleanings?
Prophylaxis and Periodontal Screening
Brushing and flossing are crucial for maintaining oral health and for preventing cavities. However, an only professional cleaning can remove plaque and tartar. If the hygienist finds signs of gum disease, they will recommend a scaling and root planing procedure to treat it.
Keep Teeth and Gums Healthy
You should visit your dentist in Denver, CO for dental cleanings every six months. This maintains your oral health and removes plaque and tartar that can harden into calculus. Plaque and calculus buildup can lead to gingivitis, in which your gums become inflamed and bleed easily. This increases your risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Improves Overall Health
The mouth is the first part of the digestive system. Patients cannot properly digest food if their mouth isn’t in a healthy condition. This is where dental cleanings come in. Healthy teeth and gums are crucial for overall health and wellness.
Improves Breath Freshness
A dental cleaning can prevent cavities and gum disease and also keep your mouth fresh.
Helps Maintain a Whiter Smile
Dental cleaning involves polishing your teeth and removing any stains or plaque buildup.
Highland Dental Care, located in Denver, CO, is equipped with the best dentists and modern technologies. Call us at (303) 455-3838 to schedule an appointment at our dental practice.
