Professional Teeth Cleaning in Spring, Tx
Dentists have a special term for preventive procedures like tooth cleaning: prophylaxis, from the Greek word meaning to protect or guard against. In this case, the focus is on preventing tooth decay and gum disease. Performed in conjunction with a routine dental examination, a professional cleaning can go a long way toward controlling these two common maladies. While your teeth are being cleaned, it’s also a good opportunity to take a close look at your oral health in general and check for a few specific problems.
The Professional Cleaning Procedure
Teeth cleaning at our spring tx dental clinic is performed by a dental hygienist — a highly trained technician who uses a special set of tools designed just for this purpose. Because everyone’s teeth are a little different, your cleaning will be tailored to your particular needs. However, many cleanings follow a similar pattern.
First, the dental hygienist will do an oral examination to evaluate the health of your oral tissues. Then the cleaning will take place using either an ultrasonic scaler or metal instruments referred to as curettes to remove the plaque and calculus from the tooth surfaces. An ultrasonic scaler is a hand-held tool with a tiny tip that vibrates at a very high frequency. Hardened deposits are broken up by the rapid movement of the tip, which does not damage the tooth. A constant stream of liquid (called lavage) serves to cool the tip and aid in plaque removal; at the same time, it also washes away the debris.
Some hygienists prefer curettes, which are hand-held instruments that are curved and tapered to fit around and in between the teeth. If your teeth are sensitive, using hand-held instruments may be more comfortable for a professional cleaning. In the capable hands of a hygienist or dentist, it takes only moderate pressure to remove any stubborn buildup and scrub the teeth clean, regardless of which instruments are used.
Finally, your teeth are polished with a low-speed rotary brush fitted with a soft rubber tip. A slightly gritty, toothpaste-like gel is applied, and the tip spins around and polishes the teeth, making them smooth and shiny.
A Requirement for Good Oral Health
Most people don’t feel any noticeable discomfort during dental cleanings; some even report they enjoy the experience — especially the dramatic results when it’s done! If you haven’t had a cleaning in a while, however, it may take you a few moments to get used to getting your teeth cleaned. If you experience any discomfort, however, it may be possible to apply a topical numbing gel or another type of anesthetic.
If your gums are irritated due to bacterial buildup, they may become sore or bleed slightly during the cleaning. It may be possible to prevent this from occuring in the future with oral hygiene measures you can perform at home (such as improved flossing techniques or special mouthrinses); it might also indicate that you need more frequent in-office cleanings. This type of regular maintenance will help you avoid more involved dental procedures down the road — and it will give you the best chance of keeping your teeth for life!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my cleaning routine change depending on my teeth?
We adjust it based on plaque buildup, gum health, and restorations like crowns or braces. A history of cavities or gum disease often means more frequent visits.
Will the ultrasonic scaler damage my teeth?
Not at all. The tip vibrates quickly to break up tartar. A steady stream of water cools it down and rinses away debris at the same time.
Why do some hygienists use hand tools instead of the ultrasonic scaler?
If your teeth are sensitive, we’ll often reach for curved hand tools instead. They clear the buildup more gently.
Is it normal for my gums to bleed during a cleaning?
This can happen if your gums are already irritated. Coming in more often for cleanings may help.
Can I request numbing gel if my teeth are sensitive during cleaning?
Yes. If the cleaning process is causing your discomfort, you can go for a topical numbing gel or another anesthetic option.
What's that gritty paste used for at the end of my cleaning?
That’s the polishing step. A soft rubber tip spins with the gel to smooth and shine your teeth after the deeper cleaning is done.
Why does the dental hygienist examine my mouth before starting the cleaning?
First, the dental hygienist will do an oral examination to evaluate the health of your oral tissues.