The Benefits of Dental Cleaning Procedures

Dental cleaning procedures may seem complicated to patients, but they’re quite simple. Dentists will utilize devices and techniques to remove plaque in the patient’s teeth in an efficient manner. The plaque will sometimes build up in areas that are difficult to reach, even when patients regularly brush and floss their teeth. This is why dentists recommend that patients get their teeth professionally cleaned at least twice a year. If not, patients could suffer from gum disease, cavities, or tooth loss.

Dental Cleaning Procedures Prevent Gum Disease

According to studies conducted by the CDC, close to half of Americans have periodontal disease, also known as gum disease. This is a preventable and treatable disease caused by lack of sufficient oral hygiene. Typically, when patients make appointments for dental cleaning procedures, dentists will look for signs of receding or damaged gums. Dentists will use a periodontal ruler to measure the gums and probe for signs of gum disease. If they find any indication of gum disease, the dentist will have to treat it immediately. One of the most common reasons for gum disease is plaque build up. Getting regular dental cleanings will prevent plaque and tartar from building up in the gums, therefore preventing gum disease. Deep cleanings can also treat early stages of gum disease and gingivitis. Dentists will typically use an ultrasonic scaler in order to remove hard deposits of plaque on the teeth, however, they may use a carbon fiber hand scaler to get a deeper clean.

Preventing Cavities and Tooth Loss

Examinations conducted during dental cleaning procedures can help dentists locate problem areas that may need treatment. Dentists can check for cracks or tooth loss easily by using x-rays to detect damage. They may even perform a tooth examination with a fiber-optic light source in order to check for any disruptions in the light transmission. If the patient has a cracked tooth or cavity, the dentist may give the patient fluoride to clean or disinfect the area. Then they will perform a filling or crown to restore the tooth. If the damage is too severe, the dentist may have to perform a root canal. These procedures are done to prevent patients from losing any of their teeth.

Tooth Whitening and Stain Removal

As part of the procedure, dentists will typically use a polishing tool to remove any staining present at the end of the cleaning. The dentist will use a flavored paste to polish and smoothen the surface of the tooth. Not only will this get rid of those pesky coffee stains, this procedure will make it harder for plaque and tartar to stay on the surface of the patient’s teeth. This means that the patient's teeth will be less prone to staining.

Checking for Oral Cancer

During dental cleaning procedures, the dentist will typically check for signs of oral cancer. Each year, there are over 40,000 new cases of oral cancer. At a dental office, the screening is conducted by checking the inside of the mouth and tongue for suspicious lumps. Checking these areas can increase the chances of finding signs of oral cancer. The key to treating oral cancer is early detection, which will increase the likelihood by which the disease is successfully treated. Visiting the dentist frequently for dental cleaning procedures is the best way to significantly increase the likelihood of early detection.

Speaking with the Hygienist

One of the most important aspects of dental cleaning procedures is speaking with the hygienist. The dental hygienist will be able to share information with the patient. They should point out problem areas in the mouth that will need more attention than usual. Hygienist should also instruct patients on proper techniques that patients can use when brushing their teeth at home. Lastly, they can recommend effective products that work best with the patient. Altogether, the hygienist is a vital part of your visit to the dentist, and you should take some time to talk to the hygienist if you have any questions.

Dr. Jamie Alexander is committed dentist who operates a professional practice in Boynton Beach, Florida. At Dr. Jamie Alexander, D.D.S., PA, their office conducts cosmetic, restorative and general dentistry for patients in South Florida. His clinic is located at 2521 South Federal Hwy, Boynton Beach, FL 33435, USA. To reach their office, call them at 561-732-8877.