During a routine dental cleaning, our dental hygienist will clean your teeth by scraping their surface to remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains and then polish them to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. The hygienist or dentist may also use an ultrasonic cleaner to remove stubborn plaque and tartar from your teeth.
What Are the Benefits of Dental Cleanings?
Dental cleanings benefit your teeth, gums, and entire smile, keeping them healthy for the long run. During a cleaning, we remove dental plaque and tartar from your teeth. We also give you a thorough dental exam, which helps us detect early signs of dental problems. If we detect any abnormalities, we can recommend treatments that will eliminate any dental problems and prevent new ones from developing.
How Often Should I Get a Dental Cleaning?
Dental cleanings are usually done every six months. However, you may need more frequent cleanings if you have issues like periodontitis.
Our Dentist in McKinney TX may recommend cleanings every three, four, or six months depending on your individual needs and your risk of developing certain dental issues.
Generally, cleanings are recommended more frequently if you:
- Smoke
- Have untreated tooth decay or gum disease
- Are pregnant
- Are undergoing orthodontic treatment
- Suffer from dry mouth
What Is the Procedure Involved in Dental Cleaning?
First, the dentist or dental hygienist will use a scaler to remove the buildup of plaque and tartar from your teeth. They will then polish your teeth to help remove stains and prevent plaque from building back up. Finally, fluoride is applied to the surface of the teeth to help strengthen them and prevent tooth decay.
What Are the Different Types of Dental Cleanings?
There are two main types of dental cleanings:
Routine dental cleanings: These dental cleanings include the removal of plaque and tartar from above the gum line, polishing the teeth, and checking for signs of gum disease.
Deep cleanings: Also known as scaling and root planing, these types of dental cleanings also clean the areas of your teeth located below the gum line and are recommended for patients with gingivitis or periodontitis. In certain cases, the procedure may take multiple appointments to complete.
You can reach out to our dental practice at (972) 562-0197, visit us at 400 N Tennessee St, McKinney, TX 75069, or book an appointment online for a consultation with our dentists.
