Teeth Cleanings: Importance & Why You Shouldn't Skip Them
Regular teeth cleanings are vital to maintaining optimal oral health. While brushing and flossing at home are crucial, they aren't enough to fully protect your teeth from harmful plaque and tartar build-up. This is where professional dental cleanings come in. Below, we'll explain why teeth cleanings are essential, what to expect during the procedure, and how it benefits your overall health.
What is Teeth Cleaning?
Teeth cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a professional dental procedure performed by a dentist or dental hygienist to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from your teeth. Regular cleanings help prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath, ensuring your mouth stays fresh and healthy. But a teeth cleaning is much more than just a cosmetic treatment—it plays a crucial role in preserving your oral health.
What is a Full Dental Cleaning?
A full dental cleaning includes the complete removal of plaque and tartar build-up on both the visible part of the tooth and underneath the gumline. This procedure is usually followed by polishing to give your teeth a smooth, polished surface. Full dental cleanings are typically recommended every six months for most patients, but this can vary depending on your specific oral health needs.
Types of Dental Cleanings
Prophylaxis Cleaning:
Routine cleaning for healthy teeth and gums.
Scaling and Root Planing:
A deeper cleaning for those with gum disease, focusing on cleaning below the gumline.
Deep Cleaning:
For more advanced cases of gum disease, where tartar and plaque have built up below the gumline.
What to Expect From a Teeth Cleaning
Teeth cleaning appointments typically last between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the level of cleaning required. Here's a breakdown of the steps involved and what you can expect during your visit.
1. An Oral Examination
Before starting the cleaning process, your dentist or hygienist will perform a quick oral examination to check for any signs of dental issues, such as cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer. This helps to assess the overall health of your teeth and gums.
2. Removal of Plaque and Tartar/Scaling
Using specialized instruments, your dentist or hygienist will remove plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of your teeth. Tartar is a hardened plaque that cannot be removed with brushing alone, and its removal is essential for preventing cavities and gum disease.
3. Teeth Polishing
Once plaque and tartar are removed, the next step is polishing your teeth with a gritty paste. This step smoothens the surface of the teeth, helping to prevent future plaque buildup and leaving your teeth with a shiny finish.
4. Flossing
Finally, your dentist or hygienist will floss between your teeth to remove any remaining debris or plaque that might have been missed during the cleaning process. This ensures your entire mouth is thoroughly clean.
5. Preventive Treatments
Some dental cleanings may include additional preventive treatments, such as fluoride application, to help strengthen your enamel and protect against cavities.
6. Dental X-rays
Your dentist may take X-rays during your cleaning appointment to assess the health of your teeth and gums, ensuring no hidden issues are present.
7. Treatment Recommendations
Based on your oral exam and X-rays, your dentist may provide treatment recommendations, such as fillings, sealants, or other preventive care.
How Long Does a Dental Cleaning Take?
The average teeth cleaning session takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your specific needs. If you have a lot of plaque buildup or gum disease, it may take longer.
Risks / Benefits
What are the Advantages of Regular Dental Cleanings?
Regular dental cleanings offer numerous benefits:
Prevents cavities and tooth decay: By removing plaque and tartar, you reduce the risk of cavities.
Improves gum health: Routine cleanings help prevent gingivitis and gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss if untreated.
Freshens breath: Cleanings help eliminate the bacteria that cause bad breath.
Enhances overall health: Regular cleanings can lower the risk of heart disease and diabetes, which are linked to poor oral health.
What are the Risks or Complications of Routine Dental Cleanings?
Dental cleanings are generally very safe, but in rare cases, you might experience:
Slight gum sensitivity: After a cleaning, your gums may feel sensitive or sore for a day or two.
Bleeding gums: If you have gum disease, your gums may bleed slightly during cleaning.
Discomfort for those with dental anxiety: Some patients may feel anxious about the procedure.
Overall, the risks are minimal compared to the benefits of maintaining clean, healthy teeth.
Recovery and Outlook
Teeth cleanings typically require no recovery time. You may experience mild sensitivity or gum tenderness, but this should subside within a day or two. It's essential to continue brushing and flossing daily to maintain the results of your cleaning.
Pain Management During Teeth Cleanings
For most patients, teeth cleanings are not painful. However, if you experience discomfort, let your dentist or hygienist know. They can adjust the pressure or provide numbing gels to make the process more comfortable.
At-Home Care After Teeth Cleanings
After a dental cleaning, it's important to continue your regular oral hygiene routine:
Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
Floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth.
Use an antibacterial mouthwash to help prevent plaque build-up and keep your mouth fresh.
When to Call the Doctor
You should contact your dentist if you experience:
Persistent bleeding after a cleaning.
Severe discomfort that lasts more than a couple of days.
Pain or swelling in your gums.
Your dentist will be able to provide additional care if necessary.
Additional Details
Who Needs More Frequent Dental Cleanings?
Some people may need more frequent cleanings due to specific health conditions, including:
Gum disease: People with gingivitis or periodontitis may need cleanings more often.
Braces or other dental appliances: These can trap food and plaque, requiring extra cleaning.
Smokers: Smoking can contribute to plaque build-ups, so smokers may need more frequent cleanings.
Why Is It Important to Get Your Teeth Cleaned?
Teeth cleanings are essential for maintaining oral health. They help remove harmful plaque, prevent gum disease, and keep your teeth and gums in optimal condition. Regular visits to the dentist ensure that any oral issues are addressed early, saving you from expensive treatments later on.
Risks of Not Receiving Teeth Cleanings
Skipping regular teeth cleanings can lead to:
Tooth decay and cavities.
Gum disease and possible tooth loss.
Bad breath due to plaque buildup.
Higher dental bills from untreated oral health issues.
Are Dental Cleanings Worth It?
Yes! Regular teeth cleanings are a simple, cost-effective way to maintain your oral health and prevent serious dental problems down the line.
Our New Jersey Dentist Is Committed to Your Well-Being
At DentMaxNJ, we believe that regular teeth cleanings are the cornerstone of a healthy smile. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to helping you maintain excellent oral health. Schedule an appointment today, and take the first step toward a brighter, healthier smile!
