6 Main Steps Included in a Dental Cleaning Procedure

6 Main Steps Included in a Dental Cleaning Procedure

November 30, 2022 Off By Clarence Reese

Smooth teeth and a minty-fresh breath after a professional dental cleaning are hard to refuse. Although these cleanings are usually quick and painless, many patients want to avoid them to prevent the discomfort they may cause. In reality, if you are not getting your teeth cleaned regularly or neglect taking care of your teeth daily, you will experience pain and discomfort during dental cleanings. However, understanding the dental cleaning process can help you relax and appreciate the treatments.

Steps of a Dental Cleaning Procedure

Dentists recommend that teeth be cleaned at least twice yearly. When done regularly, this helps stop the buildup of plaque and tartar that can cause gum disease and tooth cavities. However, dental cleanings might be intimidating because they involve dozens of equipment and processes you cannot recognize. Learn the procedure for regular professional dental cleaning so you can relax during your next visit to the dentist.

Oral Exam

The dental hygienist will do teeth and periodontal screening before beginning the cleaning process. During this quick checkup, they will use a compact mirror to look at your teeth, gums, and entire mouth for any signs of disease or decay. An oral exam aims to detect early warning symptoms of infection, tooth decay, or other dental issues. If your hygienist discovers anything major, they will consult with your dentist before proceeding with the cleaning.

Scaling

Using a dental scaler and a small mirror to help them, your dentist will then remove the tartar from between your teeth and along the gum line. Although you will hear scraping, you can relax because this is natural. The dentist will take more time to remove a specific area if there is much tartar accumulation in your mouth.

Deep Cleaning and Polishing

After scaling, your hygienist will use a strong electric toothbrush to eliminate any remaining tartar. Prophylaxis paste is a special type of toothpaste used by dental professionals to clean teeth. The gritty texture of the toothpaste cleanses and polishes teeth. Like regular toothpaste, prophylaxis paste has a similar flavor and aroma. This process is essential and takes the most time. You will experience a slow grinding motion on your teeth and hear the electrical brush grinding. But be assured, it’s a simple and painless process.

Flossing

There are benefits to having a professional do your flossing for you, regardless of whether or not you do it on your own. The dentist will floss your teeth at your dental health appointment and scrape away any remaining plaster or plaque. Your dentist may note any problem areas requiring further care at this stage. The dentist may recommend a particular flossing method to aid with the situation.

Rinsing

Once you’ve scraped away tartar, it’s time to rinse your mouth. Dental hygienists typically use a water spray or a rinsing solution containing liquid fluoride to rinse patients’ mouths after cleanings.

Fluoride Treatment

The fluoride treatment comes at the end of the oral hygiene routine. Until your next dental appointment, your teeth will be protected from cavities due to the fluoride treatment. After the hygienist has finished the preceding procedures, your dentist will perform the final examination. The dentist may recommend additional treatments based on the examination of your mouth. Consider Dunville Dentistry to help you with these treatments.