What to Expect at Your Dental Cleaning

At Smiley Pearls, we care about our patients and want each one to have a comfortable and excellent experience. Regular dental cleanings are critical to monitoring your oral health and watching for signs of decay. These visits are typically recommended for every six months, but some patients may need more frequent appointments. If you have not been to the dentist in a while or if this is your first time, you may feel nervous about going to the dentist. That’s perfectly normal. Dental anxiety is common, and our team works hard to make every aspect of your dental experience positive. To help ease any anxiety, review this information on what you can expect to happen at a routine dental cleaning or hygiene appointment.

Why are routine dental cleanings important?

First of all, it is important to understand the importance of dental cleanings and exams. Even with a meticulous hygiene routine, cleaning the hard-to-reach areas between the teeth and the back of the mouth is difficult. If not cleaned properly, plaque forms in these areas of the mouth and can only be removed by a dental professional.  Routine professional cleanings have many benefits for oral health. Some of the benefits include:

• Plaque and Tartar Removal: Professional cleanings help reduce plaque and tartar accumulation, which in turn lowers your risk of gum disease.
• Cavity Prevention: By removing harmful bacteria, cleanings help reduce your risk of tooth decay and cavities.
• Surface Stain Removal: Cleanings can remove surface stains caused by food, drinks, and other environmental factors.
• Early Detection of Issues: Regular cleanings provide an opportunity for your dentist to spot early signs of tooth or gum problems before they become serious.

Enjoy a Dental Cleaning in a Relaxing Atmosphere

At Smiley Pearls, we prioritize patient comfort in a welcoming and relaxing environment. Our office is equipped with the latest dental technology, ensuring that you receive the highest quality treatment. Whether you are visiting for a routine cleaning or a more advanced procedure, you can always expect exceptional, compassionate care.

What happens at a dental cleaning and exam?

A typical hygiene cleaning and dental exam includes several important aspects of healthcare. A first appointment may take longer than routine appointments in order to allow time for x-rays and a more extensive consultation with the dentist. Typical dental cleanings require only about 1 hour for the total treatment.

• Comprehensive Physical Exam: Your appointment will begin with a full examination of your mouth by a skilled dental hygienist. This includes checking for signs of gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health issues.
• Removal of Plaque and Tartar: The hygienist will then use specialized tools, including a scaler, to gently remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth, particularly around the gum line and between the teeth. The duration of this process depends on the amount of tartar buildup.
• Tooth Polishing with Gritty Toothpaste: Once your teeth are free of plaque and tartar, the hygienist will use a high-powered electric brush and a professional-grade toothpaste to polish your teeth, helping to remove any surface stains and leave your smile feeling fresh.
• Expert Flossing: After polishing, the hygienist will expertly floss between your teeth, ensuring that no traces of plaque or debris remain. This step also helps identify any areas where tooth decay or gum issues may be developing.
• Final Rinse and Fluoride Treatment: The cleaning process concludes with a mouth rinse to remove any leftover particles. Depending on your individual needs, we may recommend a fluoride treatment to help strengthen your enamel, protect your teeth, and reduce the risk of cavities in the months ahead.

Periodontal Treatment and Hygiene Appointments

Typically, most patients receive standard dental cleanings known as prophylaxis. For patients who maintain proper oral hygiene and do not have other conditions, a standard cleaning is sufficient. However, some patients with gum disease may require a deep cleaning procedure known as scaling and root planing. It is not a painful or uncomfortable procedure and will only performed as needed. If any other dental concerns are detected, the dentist will discuss the options with you to determine an appropriate treatment plan.

Sedation Options For Total Relaxation

Sedation dentistry is not just for avoiding pain but can simply be for reducing anxiety during your dental cleaning. If you experience dental anxiety or have concerns about what to expect during your dental cleaning, sedation dentistry may be the right option for you.

Learn more about sedation dentistry or call our office with any questions. At Smiley Pearls, our team strives to do everything we can to provide a pleasant patient experience.

If you have any questions or concerns about what to expect during your dental cleaning or hygiene appointment, please contact our office. We are happy to assist both new and existing patients with all their oral health needs.

At Smiley Pearls, we are here to ensure that you enjoy a confident, healthy smile for a lifetime. Visit us today to schedule your next exam and cleaning at a dentist office near you in Sachse, TX.