General dentists offer regular cleanings to help patients keep their mouth clean and to prevent oral health concerns such as gum disease, dental cavities, etc. from developing. While a dental cleaning may look different for every patient depending on their oral health and specific needs, understanding the general process is helpful before a visit for a cleaning from a general dentist.
The following is a review of the dental cleaning process, including insights into what one can expect before, during and after the dental cleaning. Some patients may require more extensive treatment, whereas others may only need a simple removal of plaque from teeth in a quick and non-invasive manner.
A dental cleaning from a general dentist is a common procedure that is designed to remove the plaque and tartar from teeth. Dental cleanings are recommended by general dentists every four to six months, or as often as the dentist recommends. Otherwise, teeth become more vulnerable to dental decay and the risk of gum disease increases. It is more preventive than it is to treat a specific oral health concern, although cleanings can help with the early stages of enamel erosion and gum disease.
Before the dental cleaning, the dentist may order dental X-rays and conduct a comprehensive dental exam, particularly if it is the patient’s first visit or has not been to the general dentist in a while. This allows the general dentist to detect any oral health concerns that need addressing. For severe cases of gum disease, they may recommend a deep dental cleaning rather than a regular cleaning. The general dentist and their staff can also answer the patient’s questions and ensure they are comfortable before treatment.
The primary goal of the dental cleaning is to remove plaque and tartar on the surface of teeth and along the gum line. With the assistance of a small dental mirror, the general dentist or hygenist removes the plaque and tartar by scraping it away with a scaler. This is not a painful process. The general dentist may also brush the teeth with a special toothpaste, thoroughly floss and apply a fluoride solution. They then rinse the mouth out The entire procedure takes less than an hour.
There is no recovery time after a routine cleaning from a general dentist, and patients can return to their normal routine once they leave the office. Before leaving, the general dentist will likely schedule a follow-up visit with the patient for additional procedures (if necessary) or the next cleaning in four to six months.
Schedule a dental cleaning with our friendly and professional team today by calling us or sending us a message. We believe in the importance of regular cleanings to prevent oral care issues that are more expensive and invasive to treat.
Request an appointment here: https://www.dentistofvisalia.com or call Visalia Care Dental at (559) 975-1213 for an appointment in our Visalia office.
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