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August 24, 2024Regular dental cleanings from a professional team are key to maintaining good oral health. They keep your smile healthy and bright and play a crucial role in preventing serious dental issues. In this blog, we’ll break down what happens during a typical dental cleaning and how our team at Ovation Dental is dedicated to providing a gentle and caring experience.
Step 1: A Warm Welcome and Assessment
Your dental cleaning begins the moment you walk through our doors. Our friendly front desk team will greet you warmly and help you with any necessary paperwork. Once you’re settled, you’ll be guided to one of our comfortable treatment rooms.
Our skilled dental hygienist will start by assessing your oral health. They will use their experience and training to thoroughly examine your teeth, gums, and mouth. The hygienist may also ask about your medical history and any concerns you might have. This initial assessment helps us understand your unique needs and tailor the cleaning process accordingly.
Step 2: Removing Plaque and Tartar
The first step in the actual cleaning process is scaling, where the hygienist will remove plaque and/or tartar buildup that has accumulated on top of your teeth and along the gum line. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that hardens over time into tartar if not removed regularly. Tartar should only be removed by a dental professional with specialized tools.
This process may involve the use of manual tools or an ultrasonic scaler, which uses gentle vibrations to break down tartar. Our hygienists are trained to perform this procedure with great care, ensuring your comfort throughout.
Step 3: Polishing Your Teeth
After scaling, your teeth will then be polished to remove any remaining plaque and stains. This step involves a special toothpaste-like substance called prophylaxis paste, which has a gritty texture to smooth the surfaces of your teeth. The polishing process not only enhances the appearance of your smile but also makes it harder for plaque to accumulate.
Step 4: Expert Flossing
Even if you’re brushing and flossing regularly at home, a professional flossing session during your dental cleaning can reach areas that are hard to get to yourself and often missed. Our hygienist will carefully floss between your teeth, removing any residual plaque or debris. This step is helpful in preventing gum disease and maintaining healthy gums.
Step 5: Fluoride Treatment
To further protect your teeth, we often recommend a fluoride treatment. Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent cavities. The treatment is quick and painless, involving either a gel, foam, or varnish applied to your teeth. You’ll be advised not to eat or drink for a short period afterward to allow the fluoride to be fully absorbed.
The Benefits of Regular Dental Cleanings
Routine dental cleanings offer numerous benefits beyond just a brighter smile. Here are a few reasons why scheduling your cleanings every six months is essential:
- Prevent Cavities and Gum Disease: Cleanings remove plaque and tartar, which are the main causes of cavities and gum disease. By keeping these at bay, you reduce your risk of more serious dental issues.
- Detect Dental Problems Early: During your cleaning, our team can identify early signs of problems like tooth decay, gum disease, and even oral cancer. Early detection allows for more effective and less invasive treatments.
- Fresher Breath and Better Overall Health: Regular cleanings help eliminate bad breath caused by bacteria. Additionally, good oral health is closely tied to overall health more than you would believe, even reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other systemic or inflammatory conditions.
Our Caring Team of Experts
At Ovation, we understand that some patients may feel anxious about dental visits. That’s why our dental care team is committed to providing a gentle and compassionate experience. From our welcoming reception staff to our skilled hygienists and dentists, we strive to make each visit as comfortable as possible. We take the time to explain each step of the cleaning process, answer your questions, and ensure you feel at ease.
Regular dental cleanings are a cornerstone of maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile. We’re here to support you on your journey to optimal oral hygiene and health. Schedule your next cleaning with us today and experience the benefits of a clean, bright, and healthy smile!
