What Happens During a Routine Dental Cleaning?

What Happens During a Routine Dental Cleaning?

By: Hillside Dental
Posted on: September 21, 2023

When it comes to maintaining our overall health, oral hygiene plays a crucial role. One of the essential steps in ensuring optimal oral health is regular dental cleanings. A dental cleaning is more than just a simple brushing or flossing of your teeth. It involves a series of steps designed to thoroughly clean your mouth, remove plaque and tartar, and prevent oral diseases.

Understanding the Importance of Dental Cleaning

Oral health is directly linked to our overall health. Poor oral hygiene can lead to an array of health issues, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even respiratory infections. Regular dental cleanings can help prevent these health issues by maintaining good oral hygiene.

 

When we eat, small particles of food are left behind in our mouth. Over time, these particles combine with saliva to form a sticky substance called plaque. If not removed, plaque hardens into tartar, which can lead to gum disease and tooth decay. Dental cleanings are designed to remove plaque and tartar, preventing these dental issues.

 

Additionally, dental cleanings also provide an opportunity for your dentist to examine your mouth for signs of oral diseases. Early detection is key in treating many oral diseases, and regular cleanings can help ensure any issues are caught in the early stages.

 

The Steps of a Routine Dental Cleaning

A routine dental cleaning is typically divided into five steps: the initial examination, plaque and tartar removal, tooth polishing, flossing, and final examination.

 

The initial examination is where your dentist will check your teeth and gums for any signs of oral disease. This is done using a small mirror to inspect the various areas of your mouth. The goal is to assess the overall health of your mouth and identify any potential issues.

 

Next is the removal of plaque and tartar. This is done using a process known as scaling, where your dentist will use a special tool to scrape off the plaque and tartar from your teeth. This is the most crucial step in the cleaning process as it eliminates the harmful substances that can lead to oral diseases.

 

Once the plaque and tartar are removed, your dentist will polish your teeth. This is done using a high-powered brush and a special toothpaste. The aim is to remove any remaining plaque and tartar, leaving your teeth clean and shiny.

 

After polishing, your dentist will floss your teeth. This helps remove any debris left behind from the cleaning process. It also helps stimulate your gums, keeping them healthy.

 

The final step is another quick examination. Your dentist will once again check your teeth and gums, making sure all plaque and tartar have been removed. They will also give you tips on maintaining good oral hygiene at home.

The Benefits of Routine Dental Cleanings

There are several benefits of routine dental cleanings, many of which contribute not only to your oral health but your overall health as well.

 

Firstly, dental cleanings help prevent gum disease and tooth decay. By removing plaque and tartar, dental cleanings eliminate the primary cause of these oral diseases. This can save you from the discomfort and cost of treating these conditions in the future.

Secondly, dental cleanings can help detect oral cancer. During the initial and final examination, your dentist can check for any signs of oral cancer. Early detection is critical in treating this disease successfully.

 

Thirdly, dental cleanings can help prevent bad breath. Poor oral hygiene is a major cause of bad breath. By keeping your mouth clean, dental cleanings can help keep your breath fresh.

 

Lastly, dental cleanings can contribute to your overall health. As mentioned earlier, poor oral health can lead to various health issues. Regular dental cleanings can help prevent these issues, contributing to your overall well-being.

 

Enjoy a Healthy Smile through a Regular Dental Cleaning Today

Regular dental cleanings are an essential part of maintaining good oral health. They help prevent oral diseases, detect oral cancer, maintain fresh breath, and contribute to your overall health. Understanding the steps of a routine dental cleaning and what to expect during each step can make the process less daunting and more comfortable.

 

Dental cleanings are a preventive measure and not a treatment for existing oral diseases. If you have existing dental issues, it's important to consult with your dentist for appropriate treatment. With regular dental cleanings and good oral hygiene at home, you can enjoy a healthy and beautiful smile for years to come.


 

Protect your oral and dental health by scheduling a routine dental cleaning at Hillside Dental in our Las Vegas, Nevada clinic. We ensure patients achieve healthy smiles and maintain their beauty over time. Call 702-666-8584 (new patients) or 702-895-7799 (existing patients) to book an appointment today.