What Happens During Your Dental Cleaning
Feeling a bit nervous about your upcoming dental appointment? Don’t worry—you’re not alone! We understand how important it is for you to feel at ease, which is why we’re here to walk you through every step of professional dental cleaning.
Let’s dive in!
How Long Does a Dental Cleaning Take?
A typical dental cleaning lasts between 30 minutes and an hour. During this time, you’ll relax in a comfortable dental chair while we thoroughly examine and clean your teeth. We’ll remove plaque and tartar buildup, then polish your enamel with a gentle abrasive paste.
If X-rays are needed or we discover an issue that requires discussion, your appointment may take a bit longer.
Step-by-Step Breakdown of Your Cleaning
1. Initial Oral Examination
We start with a quick examination of your mouth using a small mirror. The dentist will check for any obvious concerns and pass along their findings to the dentist. If something serious is noticed, we will take the best course of action to cure the issue first.
2. Plaque and Tartar Removal
While brushing and flossing at home are essential, they can’t always reach every spot where plaque hides, such as between teeth or along the gumline. Additionally, once plaque hardens into tartar, only a dental professional can remove it.
Using a special tool called a scaler, your dentist will gently scrape away plaque and tartar, leaving your teeth clean and smooth. This step is far more thorough than what’s possible with at-home oral care.
3. Polishing Your Teeth
Next, we’ll polish your teeth using a high-powered toothbrush and a gritty toothpaste. Before starting, your dentist will ask you to choose your favorite toothpaste flavor—because who says cleaning can’t be a little fun?
The toothbrush’s whirring sound might catch your attention, but don’t worry; dental cleanings should never cause pain.
4. Flossing Between Teeth
Almost there! Flossing is the final step in removing any remaining debris or plaque between your teeth.
This step also helps us identify areas of concern, such as bleeding gums, which could indicate gum inflammation or other oral health issues.
5. Rinsing
Now it’s time to rinse! Your dentist will spray water into your mouth and ask you to swish it around. A small suction device will then remove the water, along with any leftover polishing paste or debris.
6. Final Checkup with the Dentist
Once your teeth are squeaky clean, the dentist will carefully inspect your teeth and gums to ensure everything looks healthy.
If no issues are found, you’re good to go! If you have any questions or concerns, this is the perfect time to bring them up. Afterward, we’ll help you schedule your next cleaning and exam—typically six months from now.
Why Are Regular Dental Cleanings Important?
Dental cleanings don’t just give you a sparkling smile—they play a crucial role in maintaining your oral health.
For example, professional cleanings allow us to:
Detect early signs of oral health issues, like cavities or gum disease.
Remove plaque and tartar before they cause further problems.
Keep your teeth and gums healthy over the long term.
Some patients may notice minor side effects, like bleeding gums, especially if they already have gum disease. However, these symptoms usually subside as oral health improves.
Teeth cleanings are a simple yet powerful way to ensure your smile stays healthy and beautiful. Now that you know what to expect, you can arrive at your appointment feeling confident and prepared. We can’t wait to help you achieve your healthiest smile yet!