Posted on 3/7/2022 by Parkway Dentistry at Langtree
Teeth cleaning is a form of dental procedure that involves the removal of plaque from teeth, with the intent of preventing dental caries, periodontitis, and gingivitis. Routine brushing and cleaning of teeth help prevent excessive build-up. A dentist could remove hardened plaque tartar.
Teeth cleaning appointments
Initially, the dentist will routinely inspect or examine the teeth and gums, using a mirror to look at every nook and cranny in the mouth—the dentist checks for signs of inflammation of the gums or potential cavities.
The dentist takes digital images of the mouth and teeth. They help access the state of oral health. This is a safe, quick, and painless process that alerts the dental hygienist of oral conditions like gum disease, tumors, tooth decay, bone loss, or other oral abnormalities.
Using a scaler and mirror to guide them, a dentist scales off the plaque and tartar around the teeth and gum line, as well as flossing in between the teeth. It is recommended that one brushes and flosses frequently to prevent tartar and plaque from building up.
The dentist brushes off the remnants with an electric toothbrush covered with gritty toothpaste and sounds grinding. The toothpaste gently scrubs the remains of the plaque and tartar.
The dental hygienist then flosses deep in between teeth while locating spots where a patient might bleed at the gum line. The purpose of this is to remove any plaque and gritty toothpaste remnants from the teeth and gums. Rinsing is usually done with a fluoride liquid to remove any debris.
Fluoride treatment is the last step in the cleaning process and involves the application of a fluoride gel, a frothy sticky foam or paste, on a mouthpiece that fits over the teeth and gum line. The paste is left over the teeth for some minutes then rinsed off. The dentist might also paint fluoride varnish on the teeth that harden after contact with saliva.