The Importance Of Having Your Teeth Professionally Cleaned Cannot Be Neglected

Getting your teeth cleaned at Glendale Dental Wellness by an experienced dentist like Dr. Ivan Chan is a crucial component of oral wellness. Even with regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing diligently from home, there are areas of your mouth that are hard to reach. When plaque is left to develop into hard tartar, this will eventually lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Because tartar cannot be removed by brushing alone, seeing your dentist for a professional cleaning is critical. Using professional cleaning equipment, your dentist and oral hygienist can remove plaque and tartar from these hard-to-reach areas while performing an oral exam to detect any signs of developing oral diseases.

What Happens During A Dental Cleaning?

When you go in for a dental cleaning appointment, your dental hygienist or dentist will remove plaque and tartar buildup from teeth using specialized tools like scalers and ultrasonic instruments. Your teeth will then receive a polish to remove surface stains and smooth the enamel. Next, your teeth will be flossed to remove any remaining plaque and see if there are any signs of gum disease or other oral health issues. Additionally, they may apply fluoride treatment to strengthen the teeth and provide oral hygiene instructions for maintaining good dental health between visits. The appointment typically lasts between 30 minutes to an hour.

What Other Services Can I Expect During A Routine Cleaning?

Your dentist will also perform an oral health examination during a dental cleaning appointment. This involves checking for signs of gum disease, tooth decay, oral cancer, and other oral health issues. They may also take X-rays to assess the condition of the teeth and jawbone. Examinations carried out during these regularly scheduled appointments are crucial to maintaining good oral (and overall) health. Early diagnosis often results in less invasive treatments with a higher chance of success.

What Can Happen If I Skip My Teeth Cleaning Appointment?

Skipping regularly scheduled dental cleanings can lead to various oral health issues. Plaque and tartar buildup increase the risk of cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Without professional cleanings, underlying dental problems like decay and infection may progress unnoticed, eventually leading to the need for more extensive and costly treatments or, in extreme cases, tooth loss. Additionally, poor oral health has been linked to systemic conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Regular cleanings help maintain oral hygiene, prevent complications, and promote overall health by addressing issues early and ensuring proper dental care.

Does It Hurt To Get Your Teeth Cleaned?

Having your teeth cleaned typically doesn’t hurt. You may experience some discomfort or sensitivity, especially if you have sensitive gums or teeth. However, dental professionals use techniques and tools designed to minimize discomfort, and any discomfort experienced is usually mild and temporary.

How Often Should I Get My Teeth Cleaned?

It is recommended to have your teeth professionally cleaned every six months. However, the frequency may vary depending on your personal oral health needs. Your dentist may suggest more frequent cleanings if you’re prone to gum disease or other oral health issues or less frequent if your oral health is excellent.

If you think it may be time to have your teeth cleaned and you are in the Glendale, CA, area, you can schedule an appointment with Dr. Ivan Chan at Glendale Dental Wellness by calling 818-243-3838.