What is Teeth Cleaning?
Teeth cleaning is a crucial component of maintaining good oral hygiene. It involves the removal of plaque and tartar from the teeth to prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems. Here are the important facts about teeth cleaning according to dental experts in Antioch, TN.
Teeth Cleaning Basics
What Is It?
Teeth cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a dental procedure that involves the removal of plaque, tartar, and stains from the teeth. Plaque is a sticky, colorless film that forms on the teeth and contains bacteria that can cause cavities and gum disease. Tartar is a hard, yellow or brown deposit that forms when plaque hardens on the teeth. Teeth cleaning is usually performed by a dental hygienist or dentist.
Why Is Teeth Cleaning Important?
- Prevent Cavities and Gum Disease
The primary reason for teeth cleaning is to prevent cavities and gum disease. Plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth over time, which can cause tooth decay and gum inflammation.
Tooth decay occurs when the bacteria in plaque produce acid that attacks the tooth enamel, leading to cavities. Gum inflammation occurs when the bacteria in plaque irritate and infect the gums, causing them to become red, swollen, and bleed. If left untreated, gum inflammation can progress to periodontitis, a more severe form of gum disease that can cause tooth loss.
- Prevent Bad Breath
Another reason why teeth cleaning is essential is to prevent bad breath. The bacteria in plaque and tartar can produce a foul odor that can be difficult to eliminate with regular brushing and flossing. If you have persistent bad breath, even after brushing and flossing, it may be a sign that you need a teeth cleaning.
- Maintain a Bright and Healthy Smile
Teeth cleaning can also help to maintain a bright and healthy smile. Over time, your teeth can become stained or discolored due to factors like coffee, tea, wine, or tobacco use. It can remove surface stains and make your teeth look brighter and whiter. Regular teeth cleaning can also help to keep your teeth healthy by removing plaque and tartar that can weaken and damage your teeth over time.
Hence, teeth cleaning is an essential component of maintaining good oral hygiene. Regular teeth cleaning can help to prevent cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and keep your teeth looking bright and healthy. It can also prevent health issues associated with poor oral hygiene. If you haven’t had a teeth cleaning in a while, it’s time to schedule an appointment with your dentist or hygienist to ensure a healthy and beautiful smile.
How Is Teeth Cleaning Done?
Teeth cleaning typically involves several steps. The dental hygienist or dentist will use a small mirror to examine your teeth and gums for any signs of inflammation or other dental problems. They will then use a scaler to remove any plaque and tartar from your teeth. The scaler is a small metal tool that is used to scrape the tartar off the teeth.
Next, the hygienist or dentist will use a polisher to remove any stains from the teeth. The polisher is a small brush that is used to apply gritty toothpaste to the teeth, which helps to remove any surface stains. Finally, the hygienist or dentist will floss your teeth to remove any plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
How Often Should Teeth Cleaning Be Done?
The frequency of teeth cleaning depends on several factors, including your oral health, your age, and your lifestyle. In general, most people should have their teeth cleaned every six months. However, if you have a history of gum disease or other dental problems, you may need to have your teeth cleaned more frequently. Your dentist or hygienist can advise you on how often you should have your teeth cleaned.
Are You Ready to Get Teeth Cleaning in Antioch, TN?
This dental treatment is an essential part of maintaining good oral hygiene. Regular teeth cleaning can help to prevent cavities, gum disease, bad breath, and keep your teeth looking bright and healthy. If you have not had your teeth cleaned in a while, it is recommended to schedule an appointment with your dentist or hygienist to get started on the path to a healthy smile.