A dental cleaning (or prophylaxis) at the dentist’s office involves removing plaque and tartar from teeth, polishing the surface of the teeth, and applying fluoride treatments to protect against decay. A typical appointment lasts about one hour, but it can vary depending on how many surfaces need to be cleaned and if you get x-rays or fluoride treatments as well. Here’s what your visit will look like, step by step.
How To Prepare For Your Dental Exam?
Preparation is key when it comes to dental health. From flossing regularly and brushing twice a day, to skipping meals and drinking right before the appointment, there are plenty of habits that can affect your teeth and gums. It’s important to brush up on your oral hygiene before heading into your next dental exam.
Take these tips from our team as well as some other helpful reminders for an easier visit:
-Eat breakfast without skimping on toothpaste this morning! Proteins in certain foods and drinks like grapefruit, lemons, dairy products, and acidic juices can wreak havoc on enamel by eating away at calcium deposits over time.
What Happens During A General Dentistry Exam?
When you come into our office for a general dentistry exam, we begin by taking an x-ray to make sure your teeth are healthy. We’ll also examine the condition of your gums and discuss what we can do to help keep them healthy as well. It’s important that your gum tissue remains strong and healthy so that it is able to keep bacteria from entering the mouth.
Next, we’ll clean your teeth with an ultrasonic instrument called a scaling tool, which helps remove plaque and tartar from all surfaces of the tooth, even deep in its crevices.
Preparing For X-Rays Or Pictures
It takes about 30 minutes for us to take x-rays and pictures of your teeth. Once we’re done, you’ll have a chance to brush your teeth before we clean them. Once that’s done, the doctor will examine your mouth. Finally, you’ll be given instructions on how to better care for your teeth at home (such as which toothpaste and toothbrush are best). We’ll also give you some items such as floss and mouthwash to help with this. All in all, it should take about two hours for a dental cleaning!
What Can I Expect At My Next Visit?
You may have a dental cleaning every six months to help maintain your teeth and gums. It may take less time than you think, but most people are anxious about the appointment. The good news is that at your next visit with us, we’ll be sure to give you a tour of our facility and answer any questions you may have before starting your dental cleaning appointment.
Getting Rid Of Bad Breath
If you suffer from chronic bad breath, also known as halitosis. Then it might be time to schedule a dental cleaning. When most people think of dental cleaning, they might only remember the scraping and drilling part. And while this is true, your dentist will also clean the surfaces of your teeth and evaluate your gums. We know you’re wondering how long this will take- so we’ll cut to the chase. An average tooth cleaning takes one hour or less depending on how many surfaces need attention.
Tips For Keeping Teeth Healthy
Bacteria and food particles can build up on your teeth, which could cause cavities or gum disease. That’s why it’s important to brush your teeth twice a day with toothpaste and floss once a day. Remember, people of all ages need regular dental cleanings from the dentist. If you are feeling uncomfortable or noticing any symptoms. Like pain when chewing or tooth sensitivity, it may be time for a visit. Your dentist will take an x-ray to look at your teeth and gums. He/she will then ask about any problems you’re having before starting the cleaning process.
