DENTAL CHECK-UP
Every healthy, beautiful smile starts with regular dental check ups to monitor the teeth and gums. By coming in for regular dental check-ups we aim to prevent small problems becoming big ones. We can work together to create a plan for at-home and in-office care that will allow you to achieve your dental goals.
DENTAL SCALING AND ROOT PLANING
Several factors contribute to periodontal disease: plaque buildup, genetics, and lifestyle. Very often, the easiest and most frequent controllable factor is bacterial plaque — the sticky, colourless film that builds up on the tooth surface and beneath the gums. This is produced by normal bacteria found in the mouth. The bacteria release substances that destroy the attachment between the gums and the teeth leading to "pockets" in between the tooth and the gum. These "pockets" break down the natural fibers that bond gums to teeth.
When this occurs, the pockets can deepen and more bacteria and toxins flourish, destroying your gums, supporting bone and teeth.
What Is a Professional Dental Cleaning?
A professional dental cleaning removes plaque, tartar, and stains that build up on the teeth over time.
Even with excellent brushing and flossing habits, certain areas of the mouth can be difficult to clean thoroughly at home. Professional cleanings help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
Dental cleanings are an important part of preventive dentistry and are typically recommended every three- six months, depending on a variety of individual factors.
Why Regular Dental Cleanings Are Important
Routine dental cleanings help maintain both oral health and overall health.
Benefits include:
• removing plaque and hardened tartar
• preventing gum disease
• reducing the risk of cavities
• detecting early dental problems
• improving breath and overall oral hygiene
Regular dental visits also allow the dentist to monitor changes in your teeth and gums over time.
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What Happens During a Dental Cleaning Appointment?
A typical dental cleaning appointment involves several steps.
First, a dental hygienist examines the teeth and gums to check for signs of inflammation or plaque buildup.
Next, specialized tools are used to gently remove tartar from the surfaces of the teeth and around the gumline. This process is called scaling.
After scaling, the teeth are polished to remove surface stains and leave them feeling smooth and clean.
Finally, fluoride treatment may be applied to help strengthen the enamel and protect against cavities.
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How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?
For most patients, dental cleanings are recommended every six months.
However, some individuals may benefit from more frequent visits, particularly if they have:
• a history of gum disease
• heavy plaque buildup
• certain medical conditions affecting oral health
Your dentist will recommend a cleaning schedule based on your individual needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Cleanings
How often should I get a dental cleaning?
Most patients benefit from a professional dental cleaning every six months. However, patients with gum disease or other oral health conditions may require more frequent visits.
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Are dental cleanings painful?
Dental cleanings are typically comfortable. If your gums are sensitive, your dental hygienist can adjust the cleaning technique to ensure the appointment remains comfortable.
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How long does a dental cleaning appointment take?
Most dental cleaning appointments take between 45 minutes and one hour.
Do dental cleanings remove stains?
Professional cleanings remove many surface stains caused by coffee, tea, and other foods. Deeper stains may require professional teeth whitening.