Teeth Cleaning

What Can I Expect From a Dental Cleaning Procedure?

A professional teeth cleaning is performed by a registered dental hygienist and is a simple and painless procedure. It involves removing tartar and plaque from your teeth - both above and below where the gum meets the tooth.

Knowing what to expect before your dental cleaning appointment can help alleviate any anxiety you have and help you enjoy the treatment, as well as the incredible results.

Dental Exam

Your dental cleaning procedure will begin with an in-depth physical exam of your entire mouth. A dental mirror may be used to help the dentist observe your teeth and gums for any signs of irritation, swelling, tartar, or bleeding.

Ultrasonic Instrument

An ultrasonic instrument is used to remove large pieces of tartar through gentle vibrations, while also spraying a cooling mist to keep your mouth free of debris. If tartar deposits have hardened on your teeth, it can take some time for the dental hygienist to remove them.

Scaling

Once the larger pieces of tartar have been removed, the next step in a dental cleaning is scaling. Your dental hygienist will use a tool called a scaler to remove the smaller deposits and smoothen the tooth surfaces.

Because it involves removing plaque and tartar from around your gum line and between your teeth, scaling is an extensive procedure, but very important as it prevents the progression of gum disease.

Polish

Once all the tartar and plaque has been cleaned, a high-powered electric brush will be used to polish the surface of your teeth, making them smooth and removing any residual tartar.

Fluoride

The last step in the teeth cleaning procedure is a fluoride treatment. A fluoride gel will be placed into small, flexible trays and placed over your teeth for up to 60 seconds. Fluoride helps strengthen your teeth and protects them from cavities. It is advisable not to eat or drink for at least 30 minutes after the fluoride treatment.

Why You Should Schedule Regular Dental Cleanings

Regular dental cleanings are a must for every patient as they prevent the yellowing of teeth, while keeping your mouth and gums healthy. They have significant oral health benefits including:

• Gum disease and tooth loss prevention
• Gives you a brighter smile
• Prevents bad breath
• Minimizes the risk of serious illnesses such as diabetes, stroke, and dementia
• Oral cancer detection
• Saves you the cost and hassle of extensive dental work by detecting signs of problems such as cavities and broken fillings early on.

How Long Does a Dental Cleaning Take?

To perform a comprehensive teeth cleaning procedure, it takes our registered dental hygienists approximately 30-60 minutes.

The length of your appointment time will vary according to:

• How long it has been since your last dental cleaning
• The amount of tartar and plaque buildup on your teeth
• Whether or not X-rays need to be taken

At Marlborough Dental Centre, we are committed to providing the most advanced dental health services to keep your mouth, teeth, and gums healthy and clean.

To learn more about our dental cleaning procedures, contact one of our NE Calgary dentists today at 403-248-2066 or fill out the form below.

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