A Comprehensive Guide to Teeth Cleanings
In this blog, we wrote the comprehensive guide to teeth cleanings. Maintaining oral health is crucial, and professional teeth cleanings play a vital role. We cover the Who, What, Why, When and How of Teeth Cleanings:
Who are Teeth Cleanings For?
Teeth cleanings, or often known as teeth scaling, are meant for everybody. No matter who you are or where you are from you’ll always get plaque and calculus build up if you don’t take of your oral health. Some people may get build up faster than others but plaque build up is inevitable.
What is Plaque and Tartar?
Teeth Cleaning involves the removal of plaque, tartar (also known as calculus). Here we cover what the differences are between these terminology.
Plaque - Plaque is a soft, sticky film that forms on your teeth and along and below the gum line. It contains millions of bacteria that produce acids after you eat or drink. These acids can damage tooth enamel, leading to cavities and gum disease. Plaque can also harden into tartar if not removed regularly. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and regular dental check-ups are essential to control plaque and maintain good oral hygiene.
Tartar (AKA Calculus) - Dental tartar, also known as calculus, is hardened dental plaque that forms on your teeth and along the gum line. When plaque isn't removed through regular brushing and flossing, it can mineralize and harden into tartar. Tartar is a rough, porous deposit that can trap stains and lead to further plaque accumulation, potentially causing cavities and gum disease. Unlike plaque, tartar cannot be removed by brushing alone and requires professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist. Regular dental visits are essential for tartar control and maintaining oral health.
Why do we need Teeth Cleanings?
Teeth cleanings are needed to maintain good oral health. Here's why:
Prevent Cavities: Plaque contains bacteria that produce acids, which can erode tooth enamel and cause cavities.
Avoid Gum Disease: Plaque buildup can lead to gingivitis, an early stage of gum disease. If untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, a more serious condition that can starts with bone loss and could lead to tooth loss.
Prevent Tartar Formation: Plaque that is not removed can harden into tartar, which is difficult to remove and can only be cleaned by a dentist.
Improve Aesthetics: Tartar can cause stains and discolouration, affecting the appearance of your smile.
Reduce Bad Breath: Bacteria in plaque can cause persistent bad breath.
What are the different types of Gum Health Diagnosis?
Gum health diagnosis is broken down into three major types. Here are the types:
Healthy or Within Normal Limits - This means that the gums are healthy and in good shape. There is minimal signs of inflammation and the patient is usually coming to the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
Gingivitis - This is the medical definition of gums being inflamed and swollen. When plaque and tartar starts building up, the body starts to fight against the bacteria and tries to remove them. This increases blood flow and recruits bacteria fighting cells causing swelling and bleeding of the gums.
Periodontitis (also known as Gum Disease) - When the build up of plaque and tartar is not removed, and the body is constantly trying to fight against the bacteria and build up, this chronic condition results in bone loss between the teeth. Gum disease is not reversible and cannot be reverted back to its healthy state. If left alone for long periods of time, there can be so much bone loss between the teeth that they become loose in their sockets and sometimes require extractions of the teeth.
Why Do We Need to Diagnose Gum Health Before Teeth Cleanings?
Diagnosis of gum health is needed before teeth cleanings because teeth cleanings are not like getting a hair cut or your nails done. It is considered a medical procedure and medical treatment. Without proper diagnosis, the proper type of dental cleaning cannot be done as treatment for someone with health gums is different from someone who has severe gum disease. Not having x-rays and a clinical exam can miss these important factors.
What happens in a Teeth Cleaning?
There are multiple steps involved in what happens in a teeth cleaning. Here are the steps:
Initial Examination - Your dentist or hygienist will start with an examination of your mouth. This will usually require x-rays and a clinical examination. A clinical examination is the dentist physically checking for signs of cavities, gum disease, or other potential dental issues.
Plaque and Tartar Removal - Using scalers and ultrasonic equipment, your hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from around and below your gum line as well as between your teeth. Regular brushing and flossing can prevent plaque buildup, but only a professional cleaning can remove tartar as they are too hard to be removed with oral hygiene at home.
Teeth Polishing - After your teeth cleaning, your teeth will be polished with a gritty paste material called prophy paste. This step removes any remaining plaque and tartar that might have been missed with the scalers and ultrasonic equipment. The gritty texture gently scrubs your teeth, leaving them smooth and polished.
Application of Fluoride - Sometimes, the hygienist may apply fluoride products such as fluoride varnish that sticks to your teeth and allows fluoride to incorporate into your teeth. This is used to help prevent cavities.
What are the Benefits of Regular Teeth Cleanings?
The benefits of regular teeth cleanings is that they are essential for maintaining good oral health. They help prevent cavities, reduce gum disease, and remove stains. They also allow your dentist to identify and address potential dental issues early.
How Often Should You Get Your Teeth Cleaned?
Most dentists recommend getting your teeth cleaned every six months. However, depending on the state of your oral health, your dentist may suggest more frequent visits.
What are some Tips of Maintaining Oral Health at Home?
Here are some tips on how to maintain your oral health at home:
Brush Twice Daily: Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush. Brush for two minutes at a time. We recommend buying an electric toothbrush like this Sonicare, with a pressure sensor and timer on it so you can be sure you are brushing the right length of time and with the right amount of pressure.
Floss Daily: Remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
Rinse with Mouthwash: Use an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria.
Healthy Diet: Limit sugary snacks and drinks to prevent cavities.
Regular professional cleanings, combined with good oral hygiene practices at home, are key to a healthy smile. For more personalized advice or to schedule your next cleaning, contact Adelaide Dental today!