Dental Cleaning and Examinations
Regular Dental Cleanings and Check-ups
Regular dental checkups and examinations are essential for maintaining a healthy smile. Dental cleaning plays a key role in this process by removing plaque, flossing, polishing, and examining the gums. By staying consistent with dental appointments and practicing good oral hygiene at home, individuals can expect quick and effective dental cleanings.
During a dental examination, a specialized dental professional will address any questions or concerns, offering guidance on how to maintain optimal oral health. To schedule your dental cleaning, reach out to our Cedar Grove Dental Group team at (973) 857-0567.
Here is what you can expect during your dental cleaning:
Medical Checkup
Prior to starting the cleaning process, the dental professional will use a small mirror to examine the entire mouth. The mirror is angled in a way that allows them to see all areas of the mouth, including the gums and teeth. During this inspection, they will be on the lookout for any signs of oral health issues, such as swollen gums that could be a sign of gingivitis, the initial stage of gum disease. If no problems are found, the dental professional will proceed with the examination and cleaning without needing to seek advice from anyone else.
Resizing
The dentist will use a scaler to eliminate any plaque or tartar that has accumulated on the teeth since the last dental check-up. This is crucial as buildup can result in tooth decay and cavities. A scaler is a specialized tool resembling a hook, which is used to remove plaque from the teeth and along the gumline. It is common to hear scraping noises during the scaling process. With consistent brushing and flossing, scaling should be a quick procedure.
Housekeeping
Once the plaque has been removed by the dental professional, they will use a gritty toothpaste and electric brush to smooth and polish the teeth. While the brush may be noisy, the brushing process is not likely to cause any discomfort. The gritty substance in the toothpaste helps eliminate any remaining plaque that may have been missed during scaling, while also polishing the teeth to prevent the buildup of bacteria between appointments.
Remember to floss regularly
It is important for everyone to include flossing in their daily oral care routine. If you do not floss regularly, you may experience some discomfort during your dental cleaning. The dentist will use a thin piece of floss to gently clean between each tooth and remove any plaque buildup. They may also inquire about your flossing habits and provide tips for better at-home care.
“Unless there are any problems detected, the examination and cleaning are taken care of by the dental professional without needing to consult anyone else.”
The combination of Dental Bridges and Dental Crowns working together
After the dental cleaning, the patient will probably be instructed to use a special fluoride mouthwash. Fluoride mouthwash is a beneficial addition to any oral care routine. Following the dentist's recommendation to use fluoride treatment both in the office and at home can help safeguard the teeth from tooth decay. Similar to the scaler, toothpaste, and electric brush used during the cleaning, this treatment is highly effective without causing harm.
“Mouthwash that contains fluoride is a useful addition to any oral hygiene routine.”
How to Clean Sensitive Teeth
If individuals have been following the recommended at-home oral care guidelines, they typically do not experience problems with sensitive teeth. However, if they do have sensitivity, it is important to inform the dental professional at the beginning of the appointment. By being aware of the sensitivity, the dental professional can suggest ways to minimize discomfort before, during, and after the cleaning. During the cleaning, they will assess for areas of sensitivity that may need attention. Additionally, they may provide further recommendations for at-home care to ensure a more comfortable experience at the next visit.
“As long as they have followed the recommended at-home oral care guidelines, most people do not have issues with sensitive teeth.”
The Distinction Between a Dental Cleaning and Deep Cleaning
Regular dental cleanings every six months are essential for maintaining a healthy mouth and preventing harmful plaque buildup. However, for those who have not had a cleaning in a while, a deep cleaning may be necessary to address bacteria and tartar in pockets between the teeth and gums. This deep cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, involves removing buildup from around the gums and the surface of the tooth roots. Multiple deep cleanings may be needed to fully address the issue and prevent gum disease and tooth loss.
