Keeping your teeth clean is a fundamental aspect of maintaining oral health. While brushing and flossing at home are essential daily habits, they aren't sufficient on their own to keep your gums and teeth in optimal condition. In fact, the real key to oral health lies in professional teeth cleaning. At Norwood Dentistry, we see firsthand how critical dental prophylaxis is to the prevention of oral diseases and overall health. Understanding the benefits of professional cleaning can lead to healthier teeth and gums, as well as a more radiant smile.
Understanding Professional Teeth Cleaning
What is Dental Prophylaxis?
Dental prophylaxis, commonly referred to as professional teeth cleaning, is a procedure performed by a dental hygienist or dentist. This in-depth cleaning focuses on areas that everyday brushing and flossing can't reach, providing a level of clean that maintains oral health more effectively.
The Teeth Cleaning Procedure
A typical teeth cleaning procedure at Norwood Dentistry involves several steps:
- Examination: Before the cleaning begins, our dental hygienist will examine your mouth with a small mirror to look for any signs of gingivitis or other potential concerns.
- Plaque and Tartar Removal: Using a scaler, the hygienist removes plaque and tartar around the gum line and in between teeth. Tartar, which is hardened plaque, can only be removed with professional tools.
- Scaling and Polishing: After tartar removal, your teeth are brushed with a high-powered electric toothbrush and special gritty toothpaste. This step, known as scaling and polishing, helps eliminate any leftover tartar and ensures your teeth surfaces are smooth and clean.
- Flossing and Rinsing: A thorough flossing follows to remove any remaining particles. Finally, the mouth is rinsed out to flush away debris.
- Fluoride Treatment: The procedure may end with a fluoride treatment to protect your teeth and help fight against cavities.
By performing these comprehensive steps, professional teeth cleaning reduces the risk of plaque buildup and maintains your dental health at its peak.
Benefits of Professional Cleaning
Engaging in regular dental prophylaxis has proven advantages that complement your daily dental routine:
- Plaque and Tartar Removal
It’s impossible to completely remove all plaque and tartar just by brushing and flossing. Tartar, in particular, forms when plaque hardens and adheres to your teeth, requiring professional intervention to be removed. Regular cleaning ensures that these deposits don’t lead to decay and cavities.
- Preventing Gum Disease
Plaque and tartar are significant contributors to gum disease, also known as periodontal disease. Professional cleaning helps prevent the onset and progression of this disease, which, if left untreated, can lead to severe oral health problems and even tooth loss.
- Fresh Breath and Whiter Teeth
The removal of plaque, tartar, and the surface level stains, coupled with scaling and polishing, promotes fresher breath and enhances your teeth's appearance. As explained in our teeth whitening service, a clean mouth significantly improves the brightness of your smile.
- Overall Health Improvement
Poor oral health is linked with conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Regular professional teeth cleaning helps mitigate these risks by keeping your mouth healthy, which in turn supports your overall health.
How Often to Get Teeth Cleaned
A common question we encounter at Norwood Dentistry is, "How often should I get my teeth cleaned?" The answer varies depending on individual needs. Typically, adults are recommended to have a dental hygiene appointment every six months. However, for some individuals, particularly those with a history of gum disease, more frequent visits may be advised.
Deep Cleaning vs. Regular Cleaning
For patients with advanced gum disease, a regular cleaning might not suffice. In such cases, we recommend a deep cleaning, which is a more intensive procedure designed to treat patients with chronic periodontal disease. This involves cleaning below the gum line to remove bacteria-filled pockets, a process that can prevent the progression of gum disease.
Cost of Dental Cleaning
The cost of dental cleaning can vary depending on the extent of the cleaning needed, your location, and whether any additional treatments are required. It's always worthwhile to check with your dental insurance provider about coverage. Rest assured, at Norwood Dentistry, we aim to provide high-quality care at a reasonable cost and discuss all potential expenses with you upfront.
When to Consult the Professionals
If you notice signs of gum disease such as persistent bad breath, bleeding gums, or sensitivity, it’s crucial to schedule a dental hygiene appointment as soon as possible. We encourage patients to commit to regular visits, as early intervention is key in preventing severe oral health issues. Learn more about the prevention strategies in our blog on preventive dental care.
Additionally, if you're considering advanced treatments like dental implants or crowns and bridges, ensuring your teeth are spotlessly clean beforehand offers the necessary foundation for these procedures.
For authoritative guidance on maintaining optimal oral health, the Canadian Dental Association (CDA) emphasizes the importance of regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings. These visits not only help in removing plaque and tartar but also allow dentists to detect early signs of tooth decay and gum disease, ensuring timely intervention. The CDA recommends consulting with your dentist to determine the frequency of visits tailored to your individual needs.
Conclusion: Taking the Next Step for Your Oral Health
Professional teeth cleaning is an indispensable part of maintaining not only oral cleanliness but also overall health. Understanding the importance of these appointments will dictate the success of all your dental efforts. Trust in the services of Norwood Dentistry to take your dental care beyond the basics—ensuring that your smile is both healthy and brilliant. For appointments or further queries, feel free to contact us or visit us directly at 4243 Highway 7, Norwood, ON.
When you prioritize professional teeth cleaning in your dental care routine, you make a valuable investment in your health that extends far beyond the dental chair. For more insight into how our services can benefit you, browse our extensive range of dental solutions now.