Many people head to our office a minimum of twice a year for a formal dental cleaning. Our dental hygienist will remove the tartar and plaque built up around the teeth, take X-rays to reveal tooth decay or bone loss and also evaluate for any sign of infection in the gum area.
Calcium-based deposits present the perfect arena for bacteria to become lodged and grow. Once bacteria have settled it can result in irritation and, if left untreated, infection. Any infection in the tissue surrounding the tooth could eventually cause the bone to recede, leaving the tooth further exposed to bacteria and decay. This condition often develops into what is referred to as periodontal disease and is often the main cause of tooth loss. Subsequently, tooth loss can leave an individual exposed to pain, further infection and decay, as well as chronic head, neck or jaw pain because the remaining teeth take on the work of the missing teeth. Additionally, gum disease has been linked with increased risk of heart disease and diabetes.
Simple, preventative care is the best method for avoiding any complicated dental problems, and the first step is regular dental cleaning. Most dental professionals will inquire about a patient’s daily oral hygiene routine, and make suggestions or recommendations about how they can improve results based on their findings.
Our hygienists use a variety of tools to perform their work, including special tools called “scalers”, which can reach plaque build-up beneath the gum line. Some employ ultrasonic tools that vibrate and break up any plaque, which is then rinsed away with water. At the conclusion of a cleaning the hygienist will use polishing tools to clear away any surface debris and leave teeth feeling smooth and shiny.
During a traditional cleaning, the patient may have some x-rays, taken, or teeth scanned with diagnodent to determine the presence of any cavities. If a patient has not had a cleaning for a long time, the process will likely take a bit longer than those who have frequent cleanings, but generally appointments last from thirty minutes to one hour.
If at any point during the dental cleaning a patient experiences pain, he/she should tell the hygienist right away.