Are you planning to go to a dental clinic soon? Do you want to know what is likely to happen during the cleaning of your teeth? Do not be anxious. Read this article to know what happens when your teeth are getting cleaned.
First, know that getting your teeth cleaned professionally will help to prevent severe oral issues and improve your dental hygiene. As a result, the process is worth it. Cleaning your teeth in a dental clinic can reduce your risk of having gum disease, remove plaque and tartar build-up, and fix your cavities issues. Although the cleaning process differs from dentist to dentist, you can expect the processes below during your next teeth cleaning.
Preliminary Dental Examination
The first step that your dentist will take is to examine your teeth and gums properly. The dentist has to check every nook and cranny of your mouth. Besides, the doctor will also look out for signs of gingivitis (inflamed or swollen gums) and dark spots for cavities. This examination is the first step before going into teeth cleaning.
The dental examination may involve the use of digital x-rays to detect tooth decay, gum disease, oral abnormalities, bone loss, tumours, and cysts. This is carried out for new patients before going further.
Teeth Cleaning Process
After the examination or assessment of the present condition of the teeth, the real cleaning of the teeth begins. The following procedures take place.
- Plague and Tartar Removal
The cleaning starts with the dentist using a scraper to remove plaque build-up and tartar around the gum line and between the teeth. Remember that plague can cause gum disease and cavities when allowed to become tartar. Although you can floss your teeth yourself, let a professional help you to remove tartar.
After the removal of the plaque comes the scraping of tartar. You may be hearing scraping sound, do not fear, it is normal. Your gums may bleed if you have gingivitis and your mouth may feel sore after the cleaning.
- Teeth Polishing
The next stage of cleaning is power polishing of your teeth. A powerful electric toothbrush will be used. It will leave your teeth smooth and shiny. The electric toothbrush will make some noises. Do not worry, it will soon be over.
- Fluoride Treatment
The final stage of the cleaning process is fluoride treatment for the protection of teeth against cavities until your next visit to the dental clinic. The hygienist will fill your mouth with fluoride foam or gel and let it remain in your mouth for about a minute and rinse your mouth with water.
- Final Assessment
After thoroughly cleaning your mouth, the doctor will assess your teeth relative to certain dental issues detected. Some recommendations will be made.