Is it time to get your teeth professionally cleaned in Oshawa? Perhaps you are overdue for a dental cleaning or don’t realize the importance of these regular dental visits to see our hygienist at Margolian Dentistry. Having your teeth cleaned by a dental professional at regular intervals is one of the most important things you can do to maintain good oral health more easily.
How Often Should I Have My Teeth Cleaned?
Usually, your dental cleaning is part of your normal dental checkup with one of our dentists in Whitby. People need to get their teeth cleaned at least annually, and usually, most people will benefit from six monthly hygiene appointments. Some people might be recommended to see our hygienist even more frequently if they have existing dental issues or general health problems that impact their dental health. When you first see our dentist, they assess your oral health and review your medical history to determine how frequently you need to see a dental hygienist.
Why Professional Dental Cleanings are Necessary
Even if you think you don’t need to have your teeth cleaned professionally, they must still be examined by a dental professional who can detect any early signs of dental problems, particularly gum disease. Also, even the most well-maintained mouth will have some tartar buildup, which is thoroughly removed during a hygiene appointment.
Tartar is also called calculus and is hardened dental plaque. Plaque forms continually over the surface of your teeth and gums and is a sticky biofilm containing bacteria that can cause dental disease, including tooth decay and gum disease. If you have a relatively good oral care routine, most plaque is removed when you brush and floss your teeth. Inevitably, some will remain, and this hardens into tartar in just a couple of days.
When tartar builds up on your teeth, the bacteria within it produce substances that infect and inflame your gums, greatly increasing the risk of gum disease in Ajax, and acids that weaken tooth enamel, making it more susceptible to cavities. There is also a significant connection between poor oral health and overall health, including heart disease and diabetes. Looking after your dental health helps to protect your general health and ensures your smile looks its best.
What to Expect During Your Dental Cleaning?
Professionally cleaning your teeth should not feel painful, especially if your teeth and gums are generally in good shape. If it has been a while since your teeth were last cleaned, don’t worry; we are very gentle and can ensure you don’t feel any pain or discomfort, using a numbing agent if necessary. Special tools break up and loosen tartar buildup before this debris is scraped or scaled away using other hand tools. Once all calculus is removed, your hygienist can polish your tooth enamel with a polishing paste. Polishing your teeth creates a smoother surface, so it is harder for dental plaque to adhere to these newly cleaned teeth, and the process removes some stains. Afterwards, you may notice your smile looks slightly brighter than before, and your breath is fresher. It is an excellent treatment for just freshening your smile.
Keeping Your Teeth in Great Shape Between Appointments
Between your appointments, it is important to ensure you brush at least twice daily and floss daily. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and spend at least two minutes cleaning your teeth methodically to ensure every tooth surface is cleaned. Please remember that our dental team is always here to help and answer any questions about your dental health and how to improve it.