Professional tooth cleaning, often referred to as a routine dental cleaning, is a thorough cleaning of your teeth performed by a licensed dental hygienist or dentist. During this treatment, plaque, tartar (calculus), and stains are removed from the surface of your teeth, especially in areas that are difficult to reach with a regular toothbrush. Professional cleaning typically includes the following steps:
Examination: Your dentist or hygienist will first examine your teeth and gums to assess your oral health. This includes checking for signs of plaque buildup, tartar, cavities, gum disease, and other potential problems.
Scaling: This process involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth, both above and below the gumline. Scaling is done using specialized tools like ultrasonic devices or manual scalers. Removing tartar is essential because it hardens over time and cannot be removed by regular brushing and flossing alone.
Polishing: After scaling, the hygienist will polish your teeth with a gritty toothpaste-like substance. This polishing step helps smooth the surface of your teeth and removes surface stains, leaving your teeth feeling smooth and clean.
Flossing: The hygienist will floss between your teeth to ensure that any remaining plaque or food particles are removed, particularly in hard-to-reach areas.
Rinsing: A thorough rinse is performed to remove any remaining debris and to leave your mouth feeling fresh.
Fluoride Treatment (Optional): In some cases, your dentist may recommend a fluoride treatment after your cleaning. Fluoride helps strengthen the enamel of your teeth and protect them against cavities, especially for patients who may be more prone to tooth decay.
While brushing and flossing are essential for daily oral hygiene, professional tooth cleaning offers several benefits that home care alone cannot achieve. Here are some key reasons why professional cleaning is important:
Prevents Plaque and Tartar Buildup
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth throughout the day. If plaque isn't removed through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a professional. Tartar buildup can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, making professional cleanings essential for preventing these issues.
Reduces the Risk of Gum Disease
Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis) is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. Plaque and tartar buildup along the gumline can irritate the gums, causing them to become swollen, red, and bleed. Professional cleanings remove this buildup and help maintain healthy gums, reducing the risk of gum disease and the associated complications.
Promotes Overall Health
Oral health is closely linked to overall health. Poor oral hygiene has been associated with various systemic health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory problems. Regular professional cleanings help maintain good oral health, which in turn supports your overall well-being.
Prevents Bad Breath
Plaque and tartar buildup, as well as gum disease, can contribute to persistent bad breath (halitosis). Professional cleaning removes the bacteria responsible for bad breath, leaving your mouth feeling fresher and cleaner.
Improves the Appearance of Your Smile
Professional cleanings can help remove surface stains caused by coffee, tea, tobacco, or other foods. Polishing your teeth helps restore their natural shine, leaving your smile looking brighter and more polished.
Helps Detect Early Dental Issues
During a professional cleaning, your dentist or hygienist will carefully examine your teeth and gums for signs of dental issues that you may not have noticed, such as cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer. Early detection of problems can lead to more effective and less invasive treatments, saving you time and money in the long run.
The frequency of professional tooth cleaning depends on your individual oral health needs. In general, it’s recommended that most people visit their dentist for a professional cleaning at least once every six months. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings if:
Your dentist will help you determine the best cleaning schedule based on your oral health needs.
Call to schedule your appointment and experience the difference in your Aesthetic Veneers or
visit Klinik Pergigian Kita which is located at:
Sentul
Wangsa Maju
Kl City