Are you feeling worried about your upcoming appointment with us? There's no need to worry at all! We're here to ensure you feel completely at ease and informed. To help you prepare, we'd like to walk you through each step of what to expect during professional teeth cleaning.

Let’s begin.

Teeth cleaning, also known as dental cleaning or prophylaxis, is a professional dental procedure performed by a dental hygienist or dentist. It involves thoroughly removing plaque, tartar (hardened plaque), and stains from the teeth. This process helps to prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath by maintaining optimal oral hygiene. Teeth cleaning typically includes scaling to remove tartar, polishing to smoothen the tooth surfaces, and sometimes fluoride treatment for strengthening tooth enamel. It's an essential part of maintaining dental health and is usually recommended every six months as part of a regular dental check-up.

Importance of Regular Teeth Cleaning

Regular teeth cleaning is essential for several reasons, primarily to maintain good oral health and prevent dental problems. Here are some key reasons why teeth cleaning is essential:

• Plaque and Tartar Removal: Regular cleaning helps remove plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) and tartar (hardened plaque) from your teeth and gumline. This prevents the buildup of harmful bacteria that can lead to cavities and gum disease.
• Prevention of Gum Disease: Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis) can develop when plaque and tartar accumulate along and below the gumline. Professional cleaning helps prevent gum disease by removing these deposits and reducing inflammation.
• Fresh Breath: Cleaning removes food particles and bacteria that contribute to bad breath (halitosis). It leaves your mouth feeling fresher and cleaner.
• Early Detection of Dental Issues: During a cleaning, your dentist or dental hygienist can detect early signs of oral health problems such as cavities, cracked teeth, oral cancer, and gum disease. Early detection allows for prompt treatment and prevents complications.
• Stain Removal: Dental cleaning can remove surface stains caused by coffee, tea, tobacco, and other substances. This can improve the appearance of your teeth and boost your confidence in your smile.
• Overall Health Benefits: Oral health is linked to overall health. Poor oral hygiene has been associated with various systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Regular cleaning helps maintain good oral health, potentially reducing the risk of these conditions.
• Customized Care: Dental professionals can provide personalized advice during cleanings based on your specific oral health needs and concerns. They can recommend oral hygiene practices and products tailored to your situation.

What to Expect During a Professional Teeth Cleaning

• Initial Oral Examination: To begin, the dental hygienist uses a small mirror to carefully examine the inside of your mouth. If they identify any noticeable issues, they will inform our dentist promptly. In cases of more serious findings, they may pause the cleaning procedure and consult with our dentist immediately on the next steps.
• Plaque and Tartar Removal: While brushing and flossing at home are effective for maintaining oral hygiene, they may not fully remove plaque hidden between teeth and along the gum line. Tartar, especially, requires professional removal. During teeth cleaning, the hygienist uses a scaler, a specialized tool, to gently eliminate plaque and tartar buildup.
• Polishing Teeth: After removing plaque and tartar, we polish your teeth using a gritty tooth polish and a powerful brush. Before starting, the hygienist will invite you to choose your preferred flavor of tooth polish. The procedure should not cause discomfort despite the sound of the equipment.
• Flossing Between Teeth: Almost done! As a final step, the dental hygienist will carefully floss between your teeth to remove any remaining plaque. This step also helps identify areas with gum bleeding, which could indicate potential oral health issues.
• Rinsing: After flossing, the hygienist will rinse your mouth with water and ask you to swish before using suction to remove the water. This rinsing process removes any leftover tooth polish.
• Final Checkup with Dentist: Our dentist will perform a final checkup once your professional teeth cleaning is complete. If no oral health concerns are detected, you're good to go! The dentist will also address your questions and schedule your next dental exam and cleaning in six months.

Teeth cleaning may result in a beautiful, healthy smile. Some patients, particularly those with gum disease, may experience minor bleeding during flossing.

Common Questions About Teeth Cleaning

Q: How often should I get my teeth cleaned?

A: It is generally recommended to get your teeth cleaned every 6 months. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings based on your oral health needs.

Q: Is teeth cleaning painful?

A: Teeth cleaning is usually not painful. You may feel some mild discomfort or sensitivity, especially if you have sensitive gums or teeth. The dental hygienist will do their best to make you feel comfortable during the cleaning process.

Q: Do I need to do anything special before a teeth cleaning appointment?

A: You should brush and floss your teeth before your appointment. It's also helpful to let your dentist know if you have any medical conditions or concerns.

Q: How long does a teeth cleaning appointment take?

A: A typical teeth cleaning appointment takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your oral health and the amount of cleaning needed.

Q: Will my dental insurance cover teeth cleaning?

A: Many dental insurance plans cover teeth cleaning as part of preventive care. It's a good idea to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage.

Q: How much is teeth cleaning?

A: The cost of professional teeth cleaning can vary depending on where you are, your dental insurance coverage, and the specific dental office you visit. Typically, a session with a dental hygienist for teeth cleaning in the United States may range from $90 to $120. Many dental insurance plans cover a portion of these costs, typically between 15% and 50%.

Maintain your smile's health with professional teeth cleanings at South Shore Dental Care in Holbrook, MA. Schedule your annual cleaning today to prevent future dental issues and keep your oral hygiene in top shape. Your smile deserves the best care – book your appointment now!