Regular dental cleanings are important, and being aware of what to expect can help ease any anxiety about the procedure, whether it is your first time or just another routine visit.
During a dental cleaning, your dental hygienist near me will thoroughly clean your teeth and check for potential issues that could lead to more significant concerns if left untreated. Here’s a detailed look at what happens during a typical dental cleaning at your local dentist in Little Italy.
1. Initial Examination
When you visit your dentist in Little Italy for a dental cleaning, the process usually begins with an initial examination. Your dental hygienist will examine your mouth closely, checking for any signs of gum disease, cavities, or other issues that may require attention. This is an essential step in identifying any areas of concern before moving on to the cleaning.
The dental hygienist near me may consult the dentist for further examination if anything unusual is noticed. However, if everything looks normal, the cleaning process begins.
2. Removing Plaque and Tartar
The primary goal of a dental cleaning is to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. When plaque is not removed through regular brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which cannot be removed by brushing alone. The hygienist uses special instruments, such as a scaler, to remove tartar from the surface of your teeth and around the gumline.
3. Gritty Toothpaste Cleaning
After scaling, the dental hygienist near me will polish your teeth with a high-powered electric toothbrush and gritty toothpaste. This helps remove any remaining plaque and stains, leaving your teeth looking and feeling cleaner. While the texture of the gritty toothpaste may feel a little unusual, this step is entirely safe when done during a professional dental cleaning.
4. Professional Flossing
Even if you floss regularly at home, nothing compares to a professional flossing session during dental cleaning. Your dental hygienist near me will get deep between your teeth to remove any lingering plaque or food particles that may have been missed during brushing. This step ensures that every area of your mouth is thoroughly cleaned, reducing the chances of cavities or gum disease.
5. Fluoride Treatment
After cleaning, your dentist in Little Italy may offer a fluoride treatment to help strengthen your teeth and protect them against cavities. Fluoride is applied to the teeth as a gel, foam, or varnish and is left on for a short period to absorb into the enamel. This treatment provides an extra layer of protection that may help reduce the risk of decay until your next cleaning.
6. Final Examination and Recommendations
Before you leave, the dentist in Little Italy will do a final check to ensure that everything looks good and provide recommendations for your oral hygiene routine. This may include advice on brushing techniques, how often to floss, and whether additional treatments such as sealants or mouthguards would benefit you.
Maintain Dental Health with Floss Dental!
Ready for your next dental cleaning? At Floss Dental Collective in Little Italy, our experienced team is here to help you maintain optimal oral health. Whether you’re due for a cleaning or need a check-up, our dedicated staff will ensure your visit is comfortable and thorough.