The Importance of Routine Teeth Cleanings
You hopefully know that going to the dentist on at least a biannual basis is an important part of maintaining good oral health. But once you get settled into the dentist chair, do you really know what’s going on? It can be a little intimidating to keep track of everything, between the glow of the dental lamp, the whirring of different instruments, and the odd feeling of having your mouth wide open for minutes at a time.
As it turns out, a lot happens during your time in the dental chair. Your entire mouth gets the cleaning and medical checkup that only a dentist can provide. At 2k Dental, you can leave our office knowing that your mouth is clean and you have a good bill of oral health. Use this blog to get a behind-the-scenes look at what happens after you sit down and get that fashionable dental bib placed around your neck.
When it’s time for your bi-annual cleaning, come see us at 2k Dental. Our team, led byGeorge Kontoveros, DMD, and Anthony Klobas, DMD, is dedicated to your oral health and will make sure you receive exemplary care and concierge-level service every time you visit. From cleanings to bridges and crowns, we’ve got you covered.
Initial examination
Once you’re seated and ready to go, the dental hygienist will do a quick initial examination. During this process, he or she will check if there are any areas with extra plaque build-up, as they will focus on these places during the cleaning. The hygienist will use a mirror to get a full picture of what’s going on inside your mouth. Your yearly x-rays may also be performed during this stage, as they could inform the cleaning process or anything the dentist may want to explore further.
Plaque removal and cleaning
After the initial examination, the cleaning begins. The hygienist will remove all of the plaque that has built up since your last visit. Even if your at-home care is top-notch, there are spots that brushing and flossing just can’t get. If you don’t floss regularly, you may experience some pain as the areas around the gums are cleaned. The hygienist will use a variety of tools to make sure your teeth are plaque- and tartar-free.
After removing any debris, the hygienist will polish your teeth. This process is performed with a spinning brush and a slightly abrasive and gritty toothpaste. The combination of the two will help finish off any remaining debris, and make your teeth feel smooth and look pearly-white.
The cleaning process ends with a flossing. Even if you floss at home, your hygienist will be able to reach every nook and cranny, including some spots you may not be able to get.
Dental examination
Now that your teeth are shiny and clean, it’s time for your doctor to examine your oral health. During his inspection, your provider checks your mouth for cavities, gum disease, and signs of oral cancer. If he notices any trouble spots, he’ll work with you to create a custom treatment that can get your mouth back into tip-top shape.
Keeping clean between appointments
Once you’re done and have set up a date for your next appointment, it’s up to you to keep your mouth clean and healthy. Our providers recommend the following to help ward off cavities and gum disease:
- Brush your teeth twice a day, for two full minutes each time
- Use a fluoride toothpaste every time you brush
- Floss daily
- Avoid sugary treats, especially sodas and sticky candies
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash each day
Stick with these habits and your next visit to see us will surely be pleasant.
When you’re ready for a cleaning, 2k Dental is here to help. Contact us or book an appointment online at our Akron or Parma offices today.