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Achieve a Sparkling Smile and Optimal Oral Health
During a teeth cleaning at The Woodlands Dentistry and Orthodontics, your hygienist will use specialized tools to carefully remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, focusing on areas that are often difficult to clean. Following this, a high-powered electric brush and gritty paste are used to polish your teeth and remove surface stains.
After the cleaning, a fluoride treatment may be applied to strengthen the enamel of your teeth and reduce the risk of cavities. Your hygienist will also offer advice on proper brushing and flossing techniques, ensuring you keep your smile healthy between visits.
It’s recommended to schedule a professional cleaning every six months, but some individuals may need more frequent visits based on their unique oral health needs.
Why Are Regular Teeth Cleanings Important?
Teeth cleanings are crucial for maintaining optimal oral health and preventing common dental issues. While twice-daily brushing and flossing are essential, they can't always remove stubborn plaque and tartar that can lead to more serious dental conditions like gum disease and tooth decay. Regular cleanings help:
- Prevent gum disease and cavities
- Remove harmful plaque and tartar
- Maintain a clean, fresh mouth
- Detect early signs of dental problems
How Do We Remove Plaque and Tartar During a Cleaning?
The mouth is constantly home to bacteria that thrive on food particles, sugars, and starches. These bacteria form a sticky film known as plaque. If not removed, plaque produces acids that can damage your enamel in as little as 20 minutes after eating.
If plaque is left untreated, it hardens into tartar, a calcified substance that cannot be removed by brushing alone. Tartar can cover the enamel and even irritate the gums, leading to further dental complications. A professional cleaning at The Woodlands Dentistry and Orthodontics removes these harmful substances, helping to prevent cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss.
What Happens During a Professional Teeth Cleaning?
Examination
The hygienist will begin by assessing your mouth for visible signs of oral health problems like cavities or gum disease.
Removal of Plaque and Tartar
Special instruments are used to meticulously remove plaque and tartar, even in those hard-to-reach areas.
Polishing
A gritty paste and electric brush are used to polish your teeth, which helps to remove surface stains and make your smile shine brighter.
Flossing
Flossing is done between the teeth and along the gumline to remove any lingering debris.
Fluoride Treatment
In certain cases, a fluoride treatment may be applied to protect and strengthen your tooth enamel.
Why Professional Cleanings are Essential for Long-Term Oral Health
- Gum Disease Prevention: Removing plaque and tartar helps prevent gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss if untreated.
- Cavity Prevention: By eliminating buildup on your teeth, cleanings help prevent decay and preserve the integrity of your teeth.
- A Fresher Smile: Professional cleanings remove surface stains caused by foods like coffee and tea, leaving you with a brighter, more polished smile.
- Early Detection: Regular cleanings allow for early detection of potential dental issues, ensuring that treatment can be initiated before problems worsen.
Frequency of Cleanings and Maintenance
While the general recommendation is to schedule a teeth cleaning every six months, some individuals may benefit from more frequent visits. Those with a history of gum disease or other dental concerns may need professional cleaning more often. It’s important to consult with your dentist in The Woodlands, TX to determine the ideal cleaning schedule based on your unique needs.
For any questions or to schedule your next cleaning, contact The Woodlands Dentistry and Orthodontics at 281-292-1220 to keep your smile healthy and bright!