Where Beautiful Smiles Begin!
Comprehensive dental care for the whole family.
Dental cleanings are an essential part of maintaining oral health. Regular visits to your dentist for professional oral exams and teeth cleanings play a crucial role in preventing dental problems and keeping your smile bright and healthy.
Generally, a dental cleaning appointment can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the individual’s oral health, age, and the extent of cleaning required. For example, if it has been over a year, it may require more time to clean your teeth. However, it’s important to note that each patient’s situation is unique, and the duration may vary.
Elements of Professional Teeth Cleaning
Examination
The first step in dental cleaning is a thorough examination. Your dentist and hygienist will evaluate your oral health, including checking for any signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or other dental issues. Regular measurements of the pockets or spaces under the gums should be recorded as a screening tool for diagnosing the health of your gums.
Scaling
After the examination, the dental professional will proceed to perform scaling. This process involves carefully removing plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and along the gumline. Specialized dental instruments ensure thorough cleaning, reaching areas inaccessible with regular brushing.
Polishing and Flossing
Your teeth will be polished to remove surface stains and plaque remnants. This polishing process helps to smooth the tooth surfaces, leaving them clean and shiny. Additionally, flossing removes plaque and debris from between your teeth and along the gumline, ensuring a thorough cleaning.
Fluoride Treatment
To further protect your teeth, a fluoride treatment may be applied. Fluoride strengthens the tooth enamel, making it more resistant to decay and reducing the risk of cavities.
How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends visiting your dentist for a professional dental cleaning at least twice a year. These routine visits allow dental professionals to thoroughly clean your teeth and identify potential oral health issues before they escalate into more significant problems.
While the general guideline suggests biannual dental cleanings, it’s important to note that the frequency may vary based on individual circumstances. Factors such as your oral health, medical conditions, and personal dental hygiene habits can influence the recommended frequency of dental cleanings.
How to Reduce the Amount of Time for a Typical Dental Cleaning
One effective way to minimize the time spent during a dental cleaning is to maintain a consistent oral hygiene routine at home. Brushing your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, along with daily flossing, helps remove plaque and prevents excessive buildup. By following these practices, you can reduce the amount of plaque and tartar that accumulates between dental visits, making your cleaning session more efficient.
To expedite your dental cleaning appointment, it’s beneficial to complete any necessary paperwork ahead of time. Many dental practices provide online forms or allow you to download and fill them out in advance. By taking care of the paperwork before your visit, you can save time during the appointment, allowing the dental team to focus on your cleaning and oral health evaluation.
Dental Cleanings Available in North Ridgeville, OH
Take the first step towards a healthier smile by booking a professional dental cleaning at Center Ridge Dental Professionals in North Ridgeville, OH. We strongly encourage you to prioritize regular dental cleanings as part of your oral care routine. Our experienced team of dental professionals is committed to providing exceptional care and ensuring your comfort throughout the process.
Dr. Scott W. Arndt, DDS
Dr. Scott W. Arndt, DDS, a highly-respected general dentist in North Ridgeville, offers patient-focused dental care underpinned by over 35 years of professional experience. By empowering his patients with knowledge and offering them a say in their treatment plans, he fosters a sense of comfort and trust, leaving them feeling well cared for and eager to recommend his practice, Center Ridge Dental Professionals. His long-standing commitment to his community has earned him the trust of multiple generations of patients.