Routine Teeth Cleaning & Check-up
Your teeth cleaning and check-up visits are as important as every other dental treatment. These visits include many dental services that are a vital part of maintaining long-term oral health.
Silverdale Dental Center recommends that healthy teens and adults should have their teeth professionally cleaned at least once every 6 months. The frequency of deep teeth cleaning depends on the health of your teeth and gums. If you have braces, are a smoker, or have a tendency to get gum infections, you should visit your dentist more often. Ask your dentist or dental hygienist how often you should schedule your cleanings.
What to Expect During the Teeth Cleaning Process
During the prophylaxis (cleaning) portion of your routine visit, your dental hygienist will remove soft (plaque) and hard (tartar, calculus, or stains) deposits that cause cavities from your teeth.
The primary purpose of having your teeth cleaned is to prevent or delay the progression of periodontal diseases. Your dental hygienist may start with an “air polisher” (an air, water, and flavored baking soda spray) to remove stains and soften deposits and will then use polish and floss to remove any remaining stains. We use a fluoride solution in our polishing paste for all of our patients, not only because it strengthens the teeth against decay but also because it has a proven antibacterial effect, which helps to prevent periodontal disease. You will be given personalized home care instructions and a final mouthwash.
Does Teeth Cleaning Hurt?
Many people have a fear of regular dental cleanings. The sounds and smells in dental offices can sometimes be strange and scary for people of all ages. We can assure you that at Silverdale Dental Center, we will take good care of you and make sure that your cleaning is a pleasant and comfortable one. A cleaning with one of our hygienists is a simple procedure that doesn’t require sedation. Communication is key, so if you are feeling anxious about your dental visit, make sure to let your hygienist know.
What to Expect During your Dental Check-up
The professional cleaning visits include a thorough exam twice a year for all ages. The examination includes a health history update and a soft tissue/oral cancer screening. Your dentist will examine your entire mouth and look for any signs of decay or periodontal (gum) disease. They will also examine your bite and your TMJ (Temporo-mandibular joint) and prescribe any X-rays you may need. During this process, you are always encouraged to ask as many questions as you feel necessary.
Dental cleanings can be done with minimal, if any, discomfort to the patient. We want your cleanings and check-ups to be a pleasant experience. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) is available at an additional fee for your comfort and relaxation. Please notify us if you are uncomfortable for any reason.