Professional dental cleanings are a major part of maintaining your oral health and are highly recommended by your dentist every six months. After all, keeping your teeth and gums free of plaque and tartar is so important.
Yet because the removal of this buildup involves some scraping, patients may inquire as to whether or not the enamel is at risk.
Let’s take a closer look at dental cleanings.
What is a Dental Cleaning?
Your routine brushing and flossing are meant to remove food particles and bacteria. However, it is easy to miss hard-to-reach areas, leaving plaque and tartar to form. Plaque is a sticky film that can be brushed away, but when it hardens into tartar, professional help is needed.
A dental cleaning, formally called oral prophylaxis, removes dental plaque and tartar before it can cause harm to the teeth and gums. This is done using specialized instruments. For instance, an ultrasonic device that emits vibrations and is cooled by water is used to loosen the larger pieces of tartar so that they may be removed.
Next, hand tools help the dental hygienist manually clear away smaller deposits found around the teeth and gums, leaving behind a smooth surface.
Flossing and polishing the teeth are also a major component of dental cleanings. Your teeth will feel clean and smooth and have a nice shine to them, as well.
How Often Do You Need a Dental Cleaning?
Most dentists recommend that patients have routine dental cleanings every six months as part of their oral hygiene routine. For those who have more complex needs or greater risk factors, these cleanings may need to occur more frequently.
Your dentist will be able to guide you on when you should be scheduling your appointment.
Can Dental Cleanings Damage Your Teeth?
If dental cleanings are highly recommended by your dentist and provide much-needed cleaning and tartar removal, is it possible that they may also damage your teeth, too? What are the risks involved?
You can rest easy knowing that dental cleanings do not cause damage to your teeth. Rather, they remove the harmful buildup in an effort to protect them.
It is worth noting, however, that there are a few minor risks or side effects that some patients may experience, including:
- Gum irritation
- Minor bleeding
- Minor swelling
Some temporary soreness may be experienced after a cleaning.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Cleanings
How long does a dental cleaning last?
On average, a dental cleaning can last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. If it has been a while since you have had one or if you require dental X-rays, it may last a little longer.
Is a dental cleaning painful?
A dental cleaning is often painless and it does not typically call for the use of local anesthetic.
Learn More About Dental Cleanings
When was the last time you had your teeth cleaned?
Whether you want to learn more about professional dental cleanings or you think that it is time for yours, the team at Minoli & Vijay, DDS PC is here for you. Contact us today at 212-888-4140.