Regular dental cleanings are a requirement for maintaining good oral and general health. Professional dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup and keep your teeth and gums looking their best.
Typically, general dentists or dental hygienists perform these cleanings since they are the primary contact for good dental care. If you have never had your teeth professionally cleaned or it’s been a while since you’ve had a teeth cleaning, you might be wondering what happens during a routine teeth cleaning.
What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning
Dental cleanings shouldn’t be painful, so if you notice any areas of pain or discomfort, let the dental hygienist know right away. First, the dental hygienist will use a small mirror to see inside your mouth.
They will visually examine all areas and ask you about any pain or problems you have been experiencing. If they notice any problem areas, they will tell your dentist, who will address them now or before your exam.
Next, the hygienist will use a special tool known as a scaler to remove plaque and tartar. They will clean all sides and surfaces of your teeth and around your gumline with the scaler.
Then, they will polish your teeth with a gritty polish and a high-powered brush, rinsing as they go. Finally, the hygienist will floss between all of your teeth and give your entire mouth a thorough rinse before the dentist comes to examine your mouth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pulpotomies
How Often Should You Have a Teeth Cleaning?
Even if you maintain a thorough oral hygiene routine at home with twice daily brushing and flossing, you still need professional dental exams and cleanings to keep your mouth healthy. Most dentists recommend that you have a dental cleaning done at least twice a year or every six months.
However, some patients may be advised to have more frequent cleanings— some as frequent as four times a year or every three months. People who are prone to cavities or gum disease should be sure to have frequent dental cleanings as a preventive measure.
How Long Does a Dental Cleaning Take?
You can expect a dental cleaning at a general dentistry practice to last about an hour. People who have routine dental cleanings twice a year may also have a dental exam, fluoride application, and X-rays taken at the same appointment, which can make the appointment take longer.
However, typically, the appointment shouldn’t last longer than 90 minutes. Individuals who receive dental cleanings more frequently should expect their appointment to take only 45 minutes.
Teeth Cleanings at Maine Dentistry
At Maine Dentistry, our dental professionals take the time to provide you with the thorough teeth cleanings and exams you deserve. We are gentle and take your questions and concerns seriously. We are your knowledgeable and compassionate partners in dental health.
Contact us today at one of our three convenient locations in Gray, Portland, and Auburn to schedule your next teeth cleaning and dental exam. If it’s been over six months since your last one, now is the time.