Regular visits to the dentist for a professional teeth cleaning and dental exam are critical to prevent dental problems. Scheduling regular dental cleanings is a preventative way to preserve your smile and keep your teeth clean and healthy. You will find that a visit to Harford County Dentistry is unlike any other visit to the dentist.
In our office, we provide complete, routine exams and dental cleanings. These will address the signs of tooth decay and cavities, gum disease, tooth wear, oral cancer, and occlusal (bite) instability. It is important to catch and treat these issues as early as possible, so scheduling cleanings and examinations regularly can save and preserve your smile.
The American Dental Administration recommends bi-annual visits to the dentist (every six months). Some patients, however, may benefit from more frequent visits to ensure optimal dental health. Our family dentist office offers the convenience of comprehensive dental care for the entire family.
What to Expect: Teeth Cleaning
During your teeth cleaning, one of our registered dental hygienists will use special tools to clean your teeth. Using a tool called a scaler and a small mirror, they will scrap away built-up plaque and tartar along the gum line and in between your teeth.
This is typically not painful, but you may experience minor discomfort. You will hear some scraping if they need to apply more than usual pressure in certain spots. The more build-up you have, the more they will need to scrape away.
Once your teeth are plaque and tarter-free, your hygienist will use a high-powered electric toothbrush and toothpaste to clean your teeth thoroughly. The purpose of this gritty toothpaste is to deep clean your teeth and to get rid of any remaining tartar.
It is safe and recommended to have dental cleanings done every six months. Last, they will floss your teeth and rinse all the debris out of your mouth. Patients leave our office with a clean smile, free of all plaque, tartar, and bacteria.
The Importance of Routine Teeth Cleanings
Routine teeth cleanings and dental exams allow us to find problems in the earliest stages. This way, we can offer the most conservative treatment options. Preventative dental care and early diagnosis can help prevent advanced dental concerns such as gum disease, tooth loss, and gum recession.
Routine dental care is also an important aspect of post-restorative dental treatment care. The dentist can look at your dental restorations to make sure they look and function their best. Dental implants, crowns, and other restorations can not develop tooth decay. However, they do depend on the surrounding teeth and tissue to be healthy and functional for long-term success.
Dr. Elliott spends one-on-one time with each patient to discuss their goals and concerns. She will explain treatment options so that you can make the best decisions for your long-term dental health and happiness.
Dental Insurance And Payment Options
We offer several financial services to make your family dentist visit as easy and stress-free as possible. Our office accepts most major dental insurance and will submit claims on your behalf. We also accept cash, check, and credit cards and offer interest-free financing options through CareCredit.
Teeth Cleanings FAQs
Do you have further questions about teeth cleaning and how it can benefit your smile? Continue reading to learn more and find answers to frequently asked questions in our office.
Are regular teeth cleanings necessary?
Yes. Teeth cleanings are necessary for routine dental care and overall oral health. Cleaning your teeth every six months will greatly reduce the risk of developing cavities, plaque buildup, and tartar damage. Only a dentist can remove stubborn buildup. Scheduling regular dental cleanings gives your dentist an opportunity to examine your oral health. In the event that any dental concerns arise, we can catch and treat them early on.
Does removing tartar hurt?
This depends on the amount of tartar you have that needs to be removed. The average person will not feel pain from this. For others, removing tartar can be painful if there is a large amount, if the gums are inflamed, or if your teeth and gums are tender. We can numb your gums if you are concerned about the pain during a cleaning. This is why it’s important to get your teeth cleaned at the dentist regularly.
Can deep cleanings cure bad breath?
Yes. Most bad breath issues are from a rapid increase of bacteria in your mouth. Patients with gingivitis, periodontal disease, or infected gums harbor millions of bacteria in their deep gum pockets. This harbored bacteria causes halitosis. When we do deep cleanings, we reduce the bacterial count in the mouth, effectively solving the problem of bad breath.
What not to do after teeth cleaning?
After a dental cleaning, patients should refrain from eating or drinking anything that is highly acidic. This includes citrus fruits, tomatoes, red wine, coffee, and juices. Spicy foods may also be uncomfortable to eat after a dental cleaning. Slight discomfort after a dental cleaning is common, especially while eating hot or cold foods or highly acidic foods. Any discomfort should go away within 24-48 hours after your cleaning.
Can dental cleaning damage teeth?
If done correctly by a professional, a dental cleaning does not damage teeth. The only time when teeth may become damaged from cleaning is when patients try to clean them at home or by someone who is not a professional. This is why scheduling regular professional cleanings with your dentist is important. Dentists work with special tools and are trained to safely and effectively remove plaque and clean teeth without causing damage.
Schedule a Dental Exam Today
Looking for a dentist that offers dental cleanings in Bel Air, MD? Dr. Elliott is currently accepting new patients! Contact our office or schedule an appointment online. We look forward to meeting your oral health and cosmetic needs.