It is a common misconception that you need to have a serious dental concern or a toothache to see a dentist. Preventive dental care can go a long way in preventing common diseases, including cavities. Also, sometimes despite all the care at home, you may end up with issues like tartar buildup and teeth discoloration. It is best to see an expert if you need an oral exam, and top dentists like Dr. Mariusz Borowicz, DDS can offer the guidance you need. In-office tooth cleaning is usually performed by dental hygienists, who are trained and licensed professionals. What happens during the teeth cleaning procedure? We have an overview below for your help.

1. Initial exam: The dentist or dental hygienist will start with a visual examination of your teeth to check if there are possible concerns, including gum inflammation and tooth decay. If they find no reasons to take additional steps, they will proceed with the cleaning.
2. Removal of plaque and tartar: During the cleaning process, the dentist will use a scaler to remove tartar around the gumline and between your teeth. Plaque can turn into tartar, and the latter is much more difficult to remove and cannot be done at home using a dental flosser.
3. Teeth scrubbing: Once there is no tartar on the teeth, the dentist will use a special electric brush to scrub the teeth. The toothpaste that’s used during the cleaning is gritty and helps remove surface stains.
4. Flossing: The dental hygienist will then use a special flosser to clean deep between your teeth. If there is too much bleeding, it could be a sign of gum disease. The dentist may recommend additional treatments if there is a need for intervention.
5. Rinsing: The final step is to rinse your mouth, for which you will get a specialized liquid fluoride solution. This will help get rid of the toothpaste and debris from your mouth.

How helpful is professional in-office dental cleaning necessary?

Yes, it would help if you went for a professional in-office dental cleaning session as suggested by your dentist. This is particularly important to keep your teeth and gums in good condition. Also, because the process also involves a comprehensive exam, your dentist can spot early signs of dental disease and recommend the right treatments, which can help prevent complications.

Contrary to what some patients assume, professional in-office dental cleaning doesn’t hurt. Talk to your dentist today to learn more and go for the session without waiting for days.