What Happens During A Professional Dental Cleaning?

A professional dental cleaning is more than just a routine check-up; it’s an essential part of maintaining optimal oral health and a radiant smile. Many people may not know what to expect during a dental cleaning, which can lead to anxiety or hesitation about scheduling an appointment. 

Understanding the process can alleviate these concerns and highlight the importance of regular dental visits. In this blog, we’ll walk you through each step of a professional dental cleaning at Refine Dental, ensuring you feel informed and prepared for your next visit.

Initial Examination and Consultation

Every professional dental cleaning begins with a thorough examination of your mouth. This is a critical step where the dental hygienist or dentist will:

• Assess your teeth and gums for plaque, tartar, and signs of decay.
• Check for any potential issues such as gum disease or oral cancer.
• Discuss any concerns or symptoms you might be experiencing.

This initial consultation sets the stage for a personalized cleaning session tailored to your specific needs.

Scaling: Removing Plaque and Tartar

Once the examination is complete, the dental hygienist will begin the cleaning process with scaling. This involves using specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of your teeth and around the gum line. The hygienist will focus on:

• Areas that are difficult to reach with regular brushing and flossing, such as between your teeth and the backs of your teeth.
• Ensuring all deposits are thoroughly removed to reduce your risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

Scaling is crucial for maintaining healthy gums and preventing cavities.

Polishing: Achieving a Smooth, Clean Finish

After scaling, the next step is polishing your teeth to remove any surface stains and achieve a smooth finish. This process involves:

• Using a high-powered rubber cup brush and gritty toothpaste.
• Buffing away any remaining plaque and stains for a whiter, brighter smile.

Polishing not only enhances the appearance of your teeth but also makes it harder for plaque to accumulate in the future.

Fluoride Treatment: Strengthening Your Teeth

To conclude the cleaning, a fluoride treatment is often applied to help protect your teeth from decay. This involves:

• Applying a fluoride gel or foam to your teeth for a few minutes.
• The fluoride then attracts minerals to your teeth, strengthening them and helping with cavity protection
• In some cases, fluoride treatment can actually reverse the first stage of tooth decay (soft spots).

Fluoride treatments are particularly beneficial for children, but adults can also gain significant benefits from this preventive measure.

Schedule Your Next Dental Cleaning in Morgantown, NC

At Refine Dental, we are committed to providing exceptional dental care that keeps your smile healthy and beautiful. If you’re in Morgantown, NC, and it’s time for your next dental cleaning, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Call us today at (828) 433-1223 to schedule an appointment and experience the difference of professional dental care tailored to your needs. Your oral health is our priority, and we look forward to welcoming you to our practice!