What is a Dental Cleaning Procedure?

 A dental cleaning is a 30- to 60-minute procedure conducted by a dental hygienist or other dental professionals to maintain the gums and teeth clean. Many people are afraid of obtaining a cleaning or even avoid it altogether due to dental anxiety and phobias, which can affect their teeth. Patients who have a thorough idea of what to expect when getting their teeth cleaned at a dentist's office can have a less stressful encounter.

While the specific cleaning treatments utilised may differ from one practice to the next, the majority of dental hygienists follow a similar regimen.

• Examination of the teeth and gums

Before starting the cleaning, the hygienist checks the patient's mouth for any indicators of oral disorders, such as swollen gums, plaque and tartar accumulation, or dark patches on the teeth, using a small concave mirror. This allows the hygienist to focus on specific areas during the cleaning. If more serious problems are discovered, such as tooth cavities or gum disease, the hygienist usually contacts the dentist, who will do a more complete examination.

• Scaling

The hygienist removes plaque and tartar off the surface of the teeth, around the gum line, and in between the teeth with a little hooked tool called a scaler. A manual or ultrasonic scaler is employed, depending on how much accumulation is there. A manual scaler scrapes the teeth, whereas an ultrasonic scaler removes big deposits with mild vibration and water.

• Flossing and polishing

The hygienist then uses a handheld electric instrument with a rubber prophy cup connected with a gritty toothpaste called prophylaxis paste to polish the teeth and remove any stains. During this stage of the procedure, patients should expect to feel a slow grinding motion on their teeth.

• Fluoride

Fluoride treatment is sometimes included in the teeth cleaning process at some dental facilities. Patients are frequently given the option of selecting their prefered taste of fluoride gel. After that, the gel is placed inside a mouthpiece, which the patient must wear for about a minute.