Regular teeth cleaning is a crucial part of maintaining optimal oral health. At Thorncrest Dental, we offer thorough professional teeth cleanings to prevent gum disease, cavities, and other dental issues. With our skilled dental hygienists, you can keep your teeth clean, healthy, and free of plaque buildup.
What Is Professional Teeth Cleaning?
Professional teeth cleaning involves the removal of plaque, tartar, and stains from the teeth to prevent cavities and gum disease. Even with daily brushing and flossing, plaque can build up in hard-to-reach areas, leading to dental issues. A professional cleaning ensures all these areas are cleaned effectively, helping you maintain long-term oral health.
Benefits of Teeth Cleaning
Here are some key benefits of regular professional teeth cleanings:
- Prevention of Cavities: Regular cleanings remove plaque that can lead to tooth decay.
- Gum Disease Prevention: Teeth cleaning helps prevent gingivitis and periodontal disease by removing tartar and bacteria buildup.
- Fresh Breath: Cleanings remove odor-causing bacteria, keeping your breath fresh.
- Brighten Your Smile: Cleanings remove surface stains caused by coffee, tea, and tobacco.
- Overall Health Benefits: Regular dental cleanings can reduce the risk of heart disease and other health conditions linked to poor oral hygiene.
Who Should Get Professional Teeth Cleaning?
Everyone should have their teeth professionally cleaned at least twice a year. Individuals at higher risk of dental issues, such as those with a history of gum disease, smokers, or people with diabetes, may need more frequent cleanings. Regular cleanings help everyone maintain healthy teeth and gums.
The Teeth Cleaning Procedure
At Thorncrest Dental, the teeth cleaning process is thorough and comfortable:
Rinse and Fluoride Treatment: A fluoride rinse or treatment may be applied to protect your teeth from cavities for several months.
Physical Exam: A dentist or hygienist first examines your mouth to assess overall oral health.
Removal of Plaque and Tartar: The hygienist uses specialized tools to remove tartar from the teeth, especially around the gum line.
Gritty Toothpaste Cleaning: Teeth are polished with a high-powered toothbrush and a gritty toothpaste to remove surface stains.
Flossing: Your teeth are expertly flossed to remove any remaining debris.
Types of Cleaning
Different types of cleanings are available depending on your oral health needs:
- Regular Cleaning (Prophylaxis): For individuals with healthy gums and teeth.
- Scaling and Root Planing: A deeper cleaning method used to treat gum disease by cleaning below the gum line.
- Debridement: Used for patients with excessive tartar buildup that can’t be removed by standard cleanings.
Longevity and Maintenance
After your professional cleaning, you can maintain the health of your teeth by:
- Brushing twice a day: Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
- Flossing daily: Flossing removes food particles and plaque between teeth.
- Regular dental checkups: Continue visiting Thorncrest Dental for checkups and cleanings every six months.
- Healthy Diet: Limit sugary foods and drinks to protect against cavities.
Cost of Professional Teeth Cleaning
The cost of a teeth cleaning can vary depending on the type of cleaning needed and your dental insurance coverage. Basic cleanings are often covered by dental insurance, while more advanced cleanings may require an additional fee. Thorncrest Dental provides flexible payment plans and insurance assistance to make professional cleanings affordable.
Discover all you need to know about dental fees and estimates.
Before and After Care
- Pre-Procedure: There’s no special preparation needed for a teeth cleaning, but it’s helpful to brush and floss before your appointment.
- Post-Procedure: After the cleaning, your teeth may feel sensitive for a day or two, especially if tartar buildup was removed. Avoid very hot or cold foods and beverages temporarily.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How often should I get my teeth cleaned?
Most people should have their teeth cleaned every six months. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings if you have certain oral health conditions.
2. Does teeth cleaning hurt?
For most people, teeth cleaning is painless. However, patients with sensitive teeth or gum disease may feel slight discomfort during the procedure.
3. Can teeth cleaning remove stains?
Yes, teeth cleaning can remove surface stains caused by food, drinks, and tobacco. For deeper stains, additional treatments like teeth whitening may be needed.
4. How long does the teeth cleaning procedure take?
A standard teeth cleaning takes about 30-60 minutes, depending on the condition of your teeth.
5. Is teeth cleaning covered by insurance?
Most dental insurance plans cover the cost of routine teeth cleanings. It’s a good idea to check with your provider to confirm coverage.
6. Why do I need a professional cleaning if I brush and floss at home?
Even with good oral hygiene, plaque and tartar can build up in hard-to-reach areas. Professional cleanings remove this buildup and help prevent cavities and gum disease.
7. What is scaling and root planing?
Scaling and root planing is a deep cleaning procedure used to treat gum disease. It involves cleaning below the gum line to remove plaque and tartar.
8. Can teeth cleaning help prevent bad breath?
Yes, professional cleanings remove bacteria and plaque that contribute to bad breath, keeping your mouth fresh.
9. Is it safe to get my teeth cleaned if I have gum disease?
Yes, it’s essential to have your teeth cleaned regularly if you have gum disease. Cleanings can help manage and treat the condition.
10. What should I do if my teeth are sensitive after a cleaning?
Slight sensitivity after a cleaning is normal, especially if plaque or tartar was removed. Use a sensitive toothpaste and avoid very hot or cold foods for a few days.
Why Choose Thorncrest Dentist in Etobicoke for Teeth Cleaning?
At Thorncrest Dental, we are committed to providing comprehensive, gentle teeth cleaning in Etobicoke that promote long-term oral health. Our skilled dental hygienists use the latest techniques and tools to ensure a thorough and comfortable cleaning experience. Whether you need a routine cleaning or more extensive care, our team will develop a personalized plan to meet your dental needs.
