Professional teeth cleaning will remove the surface build-up of plaque and tartar, as well as some stains that are not yet deep into your teeth. Webster Dental recommends that most patients should get professional teeth cleaning every six months.
Even if you brush and floss daily, you should get regular cleanings and check-ups. Getting your teeth cleaned and polished not only gives you a great smile, but it also prevents future decay and gum disease.
What Happens During a Teeth Cleaning?
Before the teeth cleaning process begins, your dental hygienist will start with an examination of your mouth. The hygienist will check around your teeth and gums for any signs of gingivitis or other potential concerns. If a problem is detected, the hygienist might call the dentist to make sure it’s OK to proceed with the cleaning.
After the exam, your dental hygienist will begin removing plaque and tartar around your gum line, as well as in between your teeth. Brushing and flossing will help stop plaque from building up and hardening into tartar. Tartar can only be removed at your dentist’s office.
The hygienist will then brush your teeth with a high-powered electric brush to get a deep cleaning and remove any tartar left behind from the scaling. The toothpaste has a gritty consistency that gently scrubs your teeth.
Nothing beats an expert flossing by your dental hygienist. A hygienist can get deep between your teeth and locate any potential trouble spots where you might bleed at the gums. Having professional flossing of your teeth also removes any leftover plaque or toothpaste.
Next, your dental hygienist will give you a rinse that contains liquid fluoride. You can rinse your mouth to get rid of any debris.
In the final step, a fluoride treatment may be added as a protectant for your teeth to help fight against cavities for several months. It can be placed into a mouthpiece that fits over your teeth or varnish is painted onto the teeth with a small brush. Fluoride varnish will harden when in contact with saliva, so you can eat and drink immediately after.
Professional teeth cleanings should be scheduled twice a year. Dental x-rays are normally done once a year. If you are looking for a dentist in Downers Grove to have your teeth cleaned, contact Webster Dental at 630.663.0554. Our dental office is located in the heart of downtown Downers Grove at 1121 Warren Avenue, Suite 130, in Downers Grove, Illinois 60515.