How Dentists Clean Your Teeth
Dental cleanings are an essential aspect of maintaining good oral health and preventing cavities, periodontal disease, and bad breath. Professional dental cleanings involve removing plaque, tartar, and other debris from the teeth and gums. Dental professionals use various dental cleaning tools and techniques to ensure thorough and effective treatment.
By keeping up with professional teeth cleaning visits, you can achieve a beautiful smile and understand the importance of proper oral hygiene.
Tools and Techniques Used for Dental Cleanings
Scaling and Root Planing
Scaling and root planing are two common techniques used to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums. Scaling removes the buildup of plaque and tartar above the gum line, while root planing smooths out the rough surfaces on the roots of the teeth to prevent further plaque buildup.
It’s often recommended for those suffering from the early stages of gum disease. In most cases, the effects of early-stage gum disease can be reversed with scaling and root planing.
Polishing Tool
Tooth polishing is the process of smoothing and shining the teeth’s surfaces after scaling and root planing. With a polishing tool, your dentist will polish the teeth after removing plaque and tartar. This process makes it harder for plaque and tartar to accumulate on the teeth, which helps prevent tooth decay and periodontal disease.
Dental Scaler
A dental scaler is a tool used to remove tartar and plaque from the teeth. It has a curved blunt end that allows it to reach under the gumline to remove debris that regular brushing and flossing can’t remove.
Ultrasonic Scaler
An ultrasonic scaler is a dental tool that uses high-frequency vibrations to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth. This tool is faster and more efficient than manual scaling and can reduce the time needed for cleaning.
Dental Mirror
Dental mirrors are small mirrors used to visualize the teeth’s surfaces and gums during professional teeth cleaning. It helps your dental hygienist identify areas of concern, such as cavities, periodontal disease, or other dental health problems.
Curette
A curette is a curved tool used to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line. It has a sharp, hook-like tip that allows your dental hygienists to scrape away the buildup from the gum tissue and the roots of the teeth. This tool is essential in preventing gum disease and maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Using a curette during a dental cleaning can remove any buildup that accumulates in hard-to-reach places at home with brushing and flossing.
Dental floss
Dental floss is a thin, waxed string used to remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth. Flossing removes any plaque and food particles that have accumulated between the teeth, preventing tooth decay and gum disease.
Dentists recommend that individuals floss at least once a day to maintain good oral hygiene. During a dental cleaning, your dentist or dental hygienist may demonstrate the proper technique for flossing to ensure the individual is doing it correctly at home.
Water syringe
A water syringe is used to rinse the mouth during and after the cleaning procedure. This tool can help remove any remaining debris from the mouth and leave the teeth feeling clean and fresh. Water syringes for oral care are especially useful for individuals with braces or other dental appliances that can trap food particles and make cleaning more difficult. It’s common to use a water syringe during a dental cleaning to ensure that all areas of the mouth are thoroughly cleaned.
X-Rays
Dental X-Rays are used to capture more detailed images to show tooth decay or other signs of problems. At least once a year, your dental hygienist will capture these images to ensure that your dental health is in pristine condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a water syringe safe for sensitive teeth?
Water syringes are generally safe for individuals with sensitive teeth. However, we recommend discussing any concerns or potential issues with your dentist or dental hygienist before using one. They can advise you on the best way to use the syringe and any precautions you may need to take.
What’s the proper technique for using dental floss?
The proper technique for using dental floss involves wrapping the floss around your fingers and gently sliding it between each tooth, being careful not to snap it against the gums. Once the floss is between the teeth, curve it around each tooth in a C-shape and move it up and down to remove any plaque or food particles. Repeat this process for each tooth, using a fresh section of floss for each tooth.
Can I take a pain reliever before my dental cleaning appointment?
Yes, taking a pain reliever before a dental cleaning appointment is a common way to make the experience more comfortable. However, it’s essential to check with your dentist before taking any medication, especially if you have any allergies or medical conditions that may be affected. They may also provide alternative options to make the experience more comfortable, such as numbing gels or sedation.
Can I clean my teeth with my at-home dental tools?
No, you shouldn’t attempt to clean your teeth with at-home dental cleaning tools. Plaque scraping should always be done by dental hygienists or other dental professionals. The sharpness of plaque scrapers can cause serious oral damage when used incorrectly. Cleaning teeth with professional dental tools at home isn’t advised.
Check Out Our Easy and Effective Dental Tools and Techniques!
With our dental tools and techniques, we can ensure thorough and effective professional teeth cleaning. If you’re in the Staten Island area and are due for a teeth cleaning, contact our dental professionals to schedule an appointment. We’ll make sure you get the dental care you need.
Insurance
We accept many insurances. Please contact one of our Insurance Coordinators to discuss your dental coverage plan.
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“I have been going here for years. The dentists are absolutely excellent and they always have an appointment available that fits into a busy schedule. I also completed invisilgn and my teeth are perfectly straight now. They also practice preventive medicine and just went in for my 6 month cleaning. Every time feel like I have a new set of choppers and best yet the check up noted no cavities!.”
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