Definition

Professional dental cleaning means removing plaque, tartar, and other debris from your teeth by a trained dental professional. This involves using specialized tools and techniques to clean your teeth more thoroughly than you can do at home.

Dental exams involve a comprehensive evaluation of your teeth, gums, and mouth to detect any dental problems or potential issues. Exams are usually done twice a year or as recommended by your dentist.

Indication

Professional cleaning and exams are recommended for everyone, regardless of age or dental history. Children should start visiting the dentist by age one h when their first tooth erupts. Adults should visit the dentist at least twice yearly for routine cleanings and exams, although some may require more frequent visits depending on their dental health.

The following are indications for professional cleaning and exams:

• Bad breath

• Bleeding gums

• Tooth pain or sensitivity

• Loose teeth

• Difficulty chewing or swallowing

• Visible tartar or plaque buildup

• Changes in the color or texture of your gums or teeth

Why Are Professional Cleanings and Exams Important?

Professional cleanings and exams are essential for maintaining good oral health. Regular cleanings can help prevent gum disease, a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. Professional cleanings also remove stains from your teeth, improving your smile’s appearance and making your teeth look brighter and healthier.

Exams can detect dental problems early before they become more serious and need more extensive treatment. For example, if your dentist detects a cavity during an exam, they can fill it before it becomes more prominent and needs a root canal or extraction. Regular exams can also detect early signs of oral cancer, essential for early intervention and successful treatment.

Steps for Professional Cleaning and Exams

Professional cleaning and exams are simple procedures that can be done in a single appointment. The following are the steps involved:

Professional Cleaning

Step 1: Your dental hygienist or dentist will use a scaler to remove tartar and plaque buildup on your teeth.

Step 2: Then, your dentist will use a toothbrush and dental floss to thoroughly clean your teeth and gums.

Step 3: Finally, they will polish your teeth to remove stains and leave them clean and bright.

Exams

Step 1: Your dentist will examine your teeth for cavities, gums for signs of disease, and mouth for signs of oral cancer.

Step 2: They may take x-rays to check for cavities and other dental issues not visible to the naked eye.

Step 3: They will recommend any necessary treatments, such as fillings or root canals, based on their findings.

Aftercare

After a professional dental cleaning, it’s important to maintain good oral hygiene habits at home, including brushing your teeth with fluoridated toothpaste twice daily, flossing daily, and using an antiseptic mouthwash. It’s also important to follow your dentist’s recommendations for follow-up care, including scheduling future appointments for cleanings and exams.

In addition to regular professional cleanings and exams, you can take several other steps to maintain good oral health. For example, eating a healthy diet low in sugar, vitamins, and minerals can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Quitting smoking or using other tobacco products can also improve your oral health and reduce your risk of developing oral cancer.

Another critical aspect of good oral health is managing underlying health conditions affecting teeth and gums. For example, diabetes can increase your risk of gum disease, so managing your blood sugar levels is crucial for preventing dental problems. Some medications can also affect oral health, so it’s important to talk to your dentist if you take any prescription or over-the-counter drugs.

Conclusion

Professional cleaning and exams are essential for maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile. By visiting the dentist regularly and following good oral hygiene habits at home, you can prevent dental problems and ensure that your teeth and gums stay in top condition.