Every dentist has their own process for an in-office dental teeth cleaning, but there are certain expectations that patients might have before their visit. This review discusses the general process that dentists use for a check-up and cleaning visit, which is recommended once every six months for most patients.
The general process for an in-office dental teeth cleaning includes an oral examination followed by the cleaning procedure. The dentist may also recommend dental X-rays if the patient has not had new ones done in over a year. Teeth polishing may also be helpful after the dental cleaning procedure.
Patients are not required to receive dental X-rays for every in-office dental teeth cleaning visit. However, most dentists do recommend new dental X-rays annually to ensure that nothing has changed with their periodontal health, since the dentist cannot see all potential concerns during an oral examination alone. Dental X-rays are non-invasive and covered by most insurance policies.
The check-up, also called an oral examination, involves the dentist looking at all areas of the patient’s teeth and gums to determine if there are any concerns that need to be addressed. Besides other oral health concerns, the dentist may check for signs of periodontal disease, deep gum pockets, early signs of teeth decay, signs of bruxism, and cosmetic concerns. This is a non-invasive process that only takes around 10-15 minutes.
Dental cleaning, also called oral prophylaxis, involves the removal of plaque and tartar buildup on the enamel of teeth and along the gum line. Through a process known as scaling, the dentist uses special dental tools to scrape away the tartar buildup on teeth, in between the teeth, in gum pockets, and along the base of the gum line.
Teeth polishing is often performed after the dental cleaning. Polishing has many of the same benefits as a dental cleaning. It involves the removal of tartar and teeth stains that remain after the cleaning and smooths the surface of the teeth. This can make the patient’s smile look better and make it easier for the patient to prevent plaque buildup between dental visits.
The dentist may offer advice on how the patient can improve their oral care routine at home to help prevent any oral health concerns from developing until their next cleaning. This may include brushing techniques, how often to floss, and what mouthwash is best to use. They may also offer advice on how to improve oral health through smart dietary choices.
Has it been more than six months since your last cleaning? If so, then call our practice today to arrange an in-office dental teeth cleaning and check-up. During the visit, we can help ensure that all of your concerns are addressed and answer any questions that you may have.
Request an appointment here: https://www.paulhuffakerdmd.com or call Paul M. Huffaker, DMD at (385) 249-5187 for an appointment in our Centerville office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Cleaning and Examinations in Centerville, UT.
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