Even though you brush after meals and floss daily, dentists still recommend getting your teeth cleaned every six months by a dental hygienist. Regular cleanings can help prevent cavities, catch diseases early and save you money.

The Cleaning Process

Getting your teeth cleaned has several steps. First, the hygienist performs an examination of your teeth. Next, he or she removes any plaque or tartar that has built up since your last cleaning. The hygienist will also look for signs of disease, and then she or he will use a tool, like a midwest dental high speed handpiece, to polish your teeth.

Getting an Exam

When you sit down in the dentist’s chair, the hygienist will  use a mirror and a set of instruments to take a look at your teeth, noting anything that needs to be examined more closely.

Removing Plaque and Tartar

Next, the hygienist will scrape around your teeth and gums to remove plaque and tartar. Plaque is a film on the teeth that is formed when bacteria mix with food particles. If the plaque sits on the teeth for a while, it turns to a hard mass called tartar. The hygienist scrapes around the base and in between the teeth to remove the calcified substance.

Looking for Signs of Disease

Another part of a regular dental cleaning is an examination for tooth and mouth diseases. The hygienist will search for cavities, pockets in the gums, red or sore spots or swelling on the tongue and mouth. Catching issues like gum disease early can help you save your teeth, plus it saves you money.

Polishing the Teeth

Finally, the hygienist uses a high speed tool and some extra gritty toothpaste to clean your teeth. This process leaves your mouth feeling clean and your breath fresh. After the cleaning, the dentist often comes in to examine your teeth and discuss any findings and treatment recommendations.

Dental cleanings are necessary to maintain the health and appearance of your teeth and gums. Your smile is the first thing many people notice, so it is important to protect it.