Teeth Cleaning

The dental cleaning process is a crucial part of maintaining good oral health. It typically involves several steps, each designed to thoroughly clean your teeth, remove plaque and tartar, and ensure your gums are healthy. Here's an overview of what you can expect during a routine dental cleaning:

1. Initial Examination
The dental hygienist or dentist begins by examining your mouth. Using a small mirror, they check your teeth and gums for any signs of inflammation, cavities, or other issues that might need attention.

Purpose:
Identifies any problem areas that require special attention during the cleaning.
Helps the hygienist determine the best approach for your specific oral health needs.

2. Scaling
Using a scaler, a handheld instrument, or an ultrasonic device, the hygienist removes plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth, especially around the gum line and between the teeth. Tartar (hardened plaque) can only be removed with professional tools.

Purpose:
Prevents gum disease by removing the buildup of plaque and tartar, which can lead to cavities and periodontal issues.

3. Deep Cleaning (if necessary)
If there is significant tartar buildup or signs of gum disease, the hygienist may perform a more extensive cleaning called scaling and root planing. This involves cleaning deeper below the gum line and smoothing the tooth roots.

Purpose:
Treats gum disease by removing bacteria and tartar from pockets around the teeth.
Helps the gums reattach to the teeth, preventing further gum and bone damage.

4. Polishing
After scaling, the hygienist polishes your teeth using a high-powered electric brush and gritty toothpaste. This step helps to remove any remaining plaque and surface stains, leaving your teeth smooth and shiny.

Purpose:
Enhances the appearance of your teeth by removing surface stains.
Smooths tooth surfaces, making it harder for plaque to adhere in the future.

5. Flossing
The hygienist will floss between your teeth to remove any remaining debris and plaque from the areas that brushing and scaling may have missed. They may use a special technique to ensure all areas are thoroughly cleaned.

Purpose:
Removes plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gumline.
Helps prevent cavities and gum disease by ensuring thorough cleaning between teeth.

6. Rinsing
You’ll be asked to rinse your mouth to wash away any debris, polishing paste, or plaque that was loosened during the cleaning. The rinse usually contains fluoride or an antibacterial agent to further protect your teeth.

Purpose:
Cleanses the mouth and removes any remaining particles from the cleaning process.
Provides a refreshing finish and may help strengthen teeth with fluoride.

7. Fluoride Treatment (optional)
The hygienist may apply a fluoride treatment to your teeth. This can be in the form of a gel, foam, or varnish that is left on the teeth for a few minutes to help strengthen the enamel and protect against cavities.

Purpose:
Provides additional protection against cavities.
Strengthens tooth enamel, especially beneficial for those prone to decay.

8. Final Examination
After the cleaning, the dentist may conduct a final examination. They will review the hygienist’s findings, check for any signs of dental issues, and discuss any concerns or recommendations with you.

Purpose:
Ensures that your teeth and gums are in good health.
Allows the dentist to provide advice or suggest further treatment if needed.

Teeth Cleaning Dentist Near Me in Austin, TX
If you're searching for a teeth cleaning dentist near me in Austin, our team at Grand Oaks Dentistry is here to help. Dr. Sharma and her team are dedicated to guiding you toward the best treatment options. For questions or to schedule an appointment, contact our caring staff at (512) 291-1666 or schedule online. We look forward to giving you a comfortable and thorough cleaning experience!"