Dental Cleanings by Our Ferndale Dentist
Routine dental cleanings are an essential part of maintaining good oral health. While regular brushing and flossing help keep your teeth clean, professional cleanings can remove the buildup of mineralized plaque (tartar) in areas that are hard to reach. This buildup, if left untreated, can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other serious oral health problems. That's why it’s recommended to visit our Ferndale dentist every six months for a thorough cleaning and exam.
What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning
A typical dental cleaning with our practice lasts between 30 minutes and an hour, and it is usually performed by our trained dental hygienist. Our Ferndale dentist may also conduct a brief exam after the cleaning to check for any potential issues. Most patients find the process to be painless, and it is designed to promote long-term oral health by removing harmful plaque and tartar that can’t be removed through daily brushing alone.
The Dental Cleaning Process
There are two main steps involved in a routine dental cleaning:
1. Scaling: The first step in the cleaning process is called scaling. This involves the removal of plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces. We use specialized tools to scrape away these deposits, focusing on areas around the gum line and between the teeth where plaque tends to accumulate. Depending on your needs, scaling may be done manually or with an electric scaler. Additionally, our hygienist will clean the pockets around the gums to remove any plaque buildup that could contribute to gum disease.
2. Polishing: Once the scaling is complete, the next step is polishing the teeth. This process smooths out the surface of the teeth, making it more difficult for plaque to stick in the future. The hygienist will use a special polisher, often with different-sized heads, to reach all areas of the teeth. Polishing not only removes any remaining plaque but also gives your teeth a brighter, cleaner appearance.
The Importance of Regular Cleanings
Visiting our Ferndale dentist for a cleaning every six months is crucial for preventing tooth decay and gum disease. Even with the best home care, plaque and tartar can still accumulate in hard-to-reach places, and only a professional cleaning can effectively remove it. Regular cleanings also help in detecting potential problems early, such as cavities or the onset of gum disease, allowing us to address these issues before they become more severe.
In addition to improving your oral health, routine cleanings can also enhance the appearance of your smile by removing surface stains and leaving your teeth feeling smooth and fresh.
Don't wait until problems arise—schedule your next cleaning with our trusted Ferndale dentist today. Call us at (248) 206-0217 to book an appointment and keep your smile in great shape!
