How Effective Is Dental Cleaning?

Dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar from a patient’s teeth, both above and below the gum line. Plaque and tartar form when bacteria in our mouths combine with food particles that remain in the mouth after eating. If left untreated, plaque and tartar can build up over time, contributing to tooth decay and gum disease. Dental cleanings should be performed twice a year to prevent the accumulation of plaque and tarter.

During a routine dental visit at Dental Health PC, the dentist will use an ultrasonic scaler to remove tartar from above and below the gum line thoroughly. Then, they will polish the teeth with a rotary brush. This helps remove other surface stains on the teeth and any plaque leftover from the scaling process. The polishing also helps smooth the tooth surface so bacteria cannot easily stick. Lastly, the dentist will apply fluoride to the teeth to help strengthen them against future damage. This will help to prevent decay, cavities, and even tooth loss.

How Are Dental Plaque Forms?

Plaque is an invisible film of bacteria that forms on your teeth daily. As you eat, the sugars in your food mix with the bacteria in your mouth to form acids that bathe the teeth for prolonged periods. Over time, these acids ruin the tooth enamel, leading to tooth decay or cavities requiring fillings.

Plaque buildup can result in sore gums, redness in the gum tissues, and even gum disease. When this condition goes untreated, the gums pull away from the teeth as the gums loosen and the pockets between the teeth and gums deepen. This is known as periodontitis and can lead to tooth loss and severe infections. The condition is irreversible if caught late and requires deep cleaning therapy called scaling and root planing to treat.

The Benefits of Professional Dental Cleanings

Professional dental cleanings are the best way to prevent oral health concerns before they begin. Even with a proper at-home oral hygiene routine, plaque and tartar can still build up along the gumline. This buildup can lead to swollen gums and periodontitis, which is the leading cause of adult tooth loss. Having your teeth cleaned at least twice a year by a professional dentist experienced in periodontal therapy is essential.

During a dentist appointment for a hygiene exam and cleaning, one of our dental hygienists will examine your mouth for signs of gum disease or tooth decay. Then they will clean and polish your teeth to remove any buildup of plaque and tartar from the surface of each tooth. After your cleaning, our dentist will thoroughly examine you for any signs of trouble. If any issues are spotted, they can be addressed immediately so they do not worsen over time. Dental exams and professional teeth cleanings are essential because they allow your dentist to discover any problems early to treat them before they become more severe and costly.

It is important to remember that despite proper brushing and flossing habits, regular professional dental cleanings and oral exams are still necessary to maintain good oral health and prevent future problems from occurring. For the best dental care, visit Dental Health PC at 869 NW 23rd Street, Corvallis, OR 97330, or call (541) 757 1829 to book an appointment.