Teeth Cleaning in Downers Grove

There’s nothing quite like a smile that’s bright and clean. The way to achieve a bright smile and good oral health is to have routine dental exams and teeth cleaning. While daily brushing is important, having your teeth cleaned by a dentist is more thorough and effective. Teeth cleanings also add additional benefits to a smile and can ward off gum disease.

 

Teeth Cleaning at Webster Dental

Webster Dental recommends having your teeth cleaned (prophylaxis) every six months. The term dental prophylaxis means the "removal of dental plaque, dental calculus, and stains from the exposed and unexposed surfaces of the teeth by scaling and polishing as a preventive measure for the control of local irritants."

Plaque and Tartar Removal

Teeth Cleaning Downers Grove

Our dental hygienist will remove harmful plaque and tartar between your teeth and along the gum line. This is performed using instruments for different functions. An ultrasonic instrument is first used to loosen tartar through vibrations. Once the large tartar pieces are removed, scalers are used to remove plaque and smaller tartar deposits.

Plaque is constantly forming on the teeth. The bacteria in plaque combines with sugars in foods and then forms acids. These acids can break down enamel and cause tooth decay. If plaque builds up along the gum line, it can lead to gum inflammation which can cause periodontal disease (gum disease). Gingivitis is one form of gum disease, where gums become swollen and bleed. When gingivitis is not addressed through proper oral hygiene and cleaning, it can develop into periodontitis and result in tooth loss.

Dental Polishing

A high-powered electrical toothbrush is used for cleaning, removing stains, and polishing the teeth. The brush, along with flavored paste is designed to make teeth shiny and smooth.

Flossing

Removing plaque and food debris between the teeth is critical for preventing decay and gingivitis. Professional flossing will remove particles between the teeth that you may have missed.

Fluoride Treatment

To protect your teeth, your dental hygienist will also provide a fluoride treatment to strengthen and protect teeth, and help fight tooth decay.

 

Additional Benefits of Teeth Cleaning

Teeth cleanings provide valuable benefits besides removing plaque and tartar which can contribute to oral health issues. These benefits can include:

  • Fresher breath

  • Brighter teeth

  • Early detection of dental problems

 

How Long Does Teeth Cleaning Take?

Teeth cleanings can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour or more, depending on your teeth. It is recommended that patients get these cleanings twice a year, along with routine dental exams.

 

If you are looking for a dentist in Downers Grove to have your teeth cleaned, contact Webster Dental at 630.663.0554.

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