14 Jan Cleanings

The most important preventative measure you can take for your teeth is to keep a rigorous brushing and flossing routine. The second most important thing you can do is to get regular professional cleanings.

During a cleaning, in conjunction with a regular checkup, your dentist, or more often a dental hygienist will use dental instruments to scrape off the buildup of tartar and plaque that accumulates over time on all our teeth. Your hygienist will use water in conjunction with their tools to aid in the removal of debris and plaque. Once your teeth have been cleaned, they will be polished using a gritty gel and a polishing tool, after which your teeth will feel smooth and clean. Even if you brush and floss regularly, it’s important to have a regular professional cleaning to eliminate buildup. 

Untreated buildup of tartar or plaque can result in a perfect place for bacteria to multiply. These bacteria can produce acids that lead to tooth decay and gum disease, which in turn can cause inflammation, infection, and possibly even other illnesses. And, as those issues become more serious, they also become more costly to fix.

During a cleaning, your dental hygienist may notice problem areas that they will point out to your dentist for closer examination. This part of the checkup process is important, and ensures that your dentist catches any developing decay or other problems early, and is able to treat them quickly.