Angela Martinez
Medical Content Writer
Dr. Carrasco
Medical Reviewer
Cleaning of the teeth, which can also be referred to as prophylaxis is an important part in oral hygiene and general health care. This comprehensive guide discusses the significance, procedure, types and advantages of dental cleaning thus giving you necessary knowledge to comprehend and give priority to this crucial dental operation.
What is dental cleaning?
Dental cleanings are professional oral care procedures done by dentists or dental hygienists. The objective of dental cleaning is to remove plaque on the teeth which can cause tooth decay or gum disease if left untreated. It also removes tartar and stains from the surface of your teeth making them whiter in color thus giving you a better smile.
How does periodontal disease lead to loose teeth?
- Periodontal disease
- Osteoporosis
- Trauma or injury
- Bruxism (teeth grinding)
- Pregnancy hormones
How often should one go for teeth cleaning?
Most adults should have professional dental cleanings twice a year, based on information from the American Dental Association. However, individual needs may vary based on factors such as:
- Oral hygiene habits
- Risk of periodontal disease
- Overall health conditions
- Smoking status
A study in the Journal of Dental Research showed that patients at high risk might need more than two visits annually — as many as four.
Why is dental cleaning important?
Dental cleaning plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health and preventing various dental issues. The 5 primary reasons for its importance include:
- Plaque and tartar removal
- Prevention of gum disease
- Early detection of oral health issues
- Maintenance of overall health
- Aesthetic benefits
How does dental cleaning prevent gum disease?
Regular dental cleanings are essential in preventing gum disease by:
- Removing plaque and tartar buildup
- Detecting early signs of gingivitis
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half of all adults aged 30 years and older show signs of gum disease. Regular dental cleanings can significantly reduce this risk.
What is the connection between dental cleaning and overall health?
Dental health is closely linked to overall health. Regular dental cleanings can help prevent:
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Diabetes complications
- Respiratory infections
- Pregnancy complications
A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that individuals who received regular dental cleanings had a 24% lower risk of heart disease compared to those who never had a dental cleaning.
What are the different types of dental cleaning?
Dental cleanings can be categorized into several types based on the patient’s oral health needs:
- Prophylaxis (regular cleaning)
- Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning)
- Gross debridement
- Periodontal maintenance
What is prophylaxis cleaning?
Prophylaxis is a routine dental cleaning procedure suitable for patients with generally healthy gums. It involves:
- Removing plaque and tartar above the gum line
- Polishing teeth to remove stains
- Applying fluoride treatment (if necessary)
This type of cleaning is typically recommended twice a year for preventive care.
How does scaling and root planing differ from regular cleaning?
Scaling and root planing, also known as deep cleaning, is a more intensive procedure used for patients with signs of gum disease. It includes:
- Removing plaque and tartar below the gum line
- Smoothing root surfaces to remove infected tooth structure
- Promoting reattachment of healthy gums to teeth
A study in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology found that scaling and root planing can significantly improve gum health in patients with chronic periodontitis.
dental cleaning procedure
A typical dental cleaning procedure involves several steps:
- Physical exam
- Removal of plaque and tartar
- Teeth polishing
- Flossing
- Fluoride treatment (if necessary)
plaque and tartar removal
Dental hygienists use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar, including:
- Ultrasonic devices to loosen larger pieces of tartar
- Hand scalers to remove smaller deposits
- Water sprayers to wash away debris
The process is typically painless, though patients with sensitive teeth may experience mild discomfort.
Teeth polishing
Teeth polishing serves several purposes:
- Removes surface stains
- Smooths tooth surfaces, making it harder for plaque to accumulate
- Gives teeth a clean, shiny appearance
A study in the International Journal of Dental Hygiene found that polishing can significantly reduce bacterial adhesion to tooth surfaces for up to 24 hours after the procedure.
benefits of regular dental cleaning
Regular dental cleanings offer numerous benefits, including:
- Prevention of cavities and tooth decay
- Early detection of oral cancer
- Fresher breath
- Brighter smile
- Cost savings on future dental treatments
How does dental cleaning help in detecting oral cancer?
During a dental cleaning, professionals conduct a thorough examination of the mouth, which can lead to early detection of oral cancer. The Oral Cancer Foundation states that early detection of oral cancer can increase the 5-year survival rate to 80-90%.
Can dental cleaning really save money in the long run?
Yes, regular dental cleanings can lead to significant cost savings by:
- Preventing the need for expensive dental procedures
- Detecting issues early when they're easier and less costly to treat
- Maintaining overall health, potentially reducing medical costs
A study in the American Journal of Public Health found that preventive dental care, including regular cleanings, can reduce the need for restorative and emergency dental procedures by up to 40%.
Prepare for a dental cleaning
Preparing for a dental cleaning can help ensure a smooth and effective procedure. Steps to take include:
- Maintaining regular oral hygiene
- Informing the dentist about any health changes or medications
- Avoiding whitening toothpaste before the appointment
- Eating before the appointment to avoid low blood sugar
- Arriving early to complete any necessary paperwork
Should you brush your teeth before a dental cleaning?
While it’s not necessary to brush immediately before a dental cleaning, maintaining good oral hygiene leading up to the appointment is beneficial. Regular brushing and flossing can:
- Reduce the amount of plaque present
- Make the cleaning process more comfortable
- Allow the hygienist to focus on deeper cleaning
Common misconceptions about dental cleaning
Several misconceptions exist about dental cleaning:
- Myth: Dental cleaning damages tooth enamel Fact: Professional cleaning does not damage healthy tooth enamel
- Myth: Cleaning is only necessary when there's a problem
- Fact: Regular cleanings are essential for preventing problems
- Myth: Home care is sufficient; professional cleaning isn't needed
- Fact: Professional cleaning reaches areas that home care can't
- Myth: Dental cleaning is painful Fact: Most patients experience little to no discomfort during cleaning
- Myth: Cleaning causes teeth to become sensitive Fact: While temporary sensitivity can occur, it's not a common or lasting effect
Is it true that dental cleaning can loosen teeth?
No, this is a common misconception. Professional dental cleaning does not loosen healthy teeth. However, if a tooth feels loose after cleaning, it may indicate an underlying issue that the cleaning has made more noticeable. In such cases, further dental evaluation is necessary.
Advancements in dental cleaning techniques
Recent advancements in dental cleaning technology have improved the efficiency and comfort of the procedure:
- Air polishing devices
- Laser bacterial reduction
- Ultrasonic scaling devices
- Digital radiography
- Intraoral cameras
Air polishing benefit
Air polishing technology offers several advantages:
- More efficient removal of stains and soft deposits
- Less abrasive than traditional polishing methods
- Reduced sensitivity for patients
- Improved access to hard-to-reach areas
A study in the International Journal of Dental Hygiene found that air polishing was more effective in removing stains and biofilm compared to traditional polishing methods.
How does dental cleaning differ for patients with special needs?
Dental cleaning for patients with special needs may require modifications to the standard procedure:
- Shorter appointment times
- Use of sedation or general anesthesia
- Special positioning techniques
- Adaptive equipment
- Behavioral management strategies
What accommodations are made for patients with dental anxiety?
For patients with dental anxiety, dental professionals may employ various techniques:
- Explaining each step of the procedure
- Using relaxation techniques or guided imagery
- Offering breaks during the cleaning
- Providing noise-cancelling headphones
- Using aromatherapy to create a calming environment
A study in the Journal of Dental Hygiene found that these anxiety-reduction techniques can significantly improve patient comfort and cooperation during dental procedures.
What role does nutrition play in maintaining clean teeth between professional cleanings?
Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health between professional cleanings. Key dietary factors include:
- Limiting sugary and acidic foods
- Consuming calcium-rich foods for strong teeth
- Eating crunchy fruits and vegetables to naturally clean teeth
- Drinking plenty of water to rinse away food particles
- Chewing sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production
probiotics affect On oral health
Emerging research suggests that probiotics may benefit oral health by:
- Reducing the growth of harmful bacteria
- Decreasing inflammation in gum tissues
- Potentially reducing bad breath
A systematic review published in the Journal of Dental Research found that certain probiotic strains may help prevent and treat oral infections, including dental caries and periodontal disease.
Potential risks or side effects of dental cleaning?
While dental cleaning is generally safe, some potential risks or side effects include:
- Temporary sensitivity to hot and cold
- Minor bleeding of the gums
- Potential damage to dental work (rare)
- Infection (extremely rare with proper sterilization procedures)
- Allergic reactions to materials used (very rare)
How long does sensitivity last after a dental cleaning?
Any sensitivity experienced after a dental cleaning is typically mild and short-lived, usually resolving within a few days. If sensitivity persists, it may indicate an underlying issue that requires further dental evaluation.
What patient are Saying?
Conclusion
Good oral health relies on regular dental cleaning, this also contributes to the general well-being of an individual. Knowing why it is necessary for you to be cleaned, how it is done and what you will benefit from it are some things which can help guide decisions about personal care for one’s mouth. It should be remembered that professional cleanings supplement daily oral hygiene practices; without them, a person cannot maintain a good-looking healthy smile.Â
Dental cleanings have been made faster more comfortable and efficient by ongoing innovations in dentistry technology and methods used during teeth cleaning procedures which are now better at preventing oral problems while still being able to detect them early enough before they become serious . Always ensure that you include teeth washings into your health routine if you want your mouth healthy throughout life with no issues detected even when smiling confidently.
Looking for quality & affordable dental work?
Dr. Carrasco
MEDICAL REVIEWER
Dr. Carrasco Graduated dental school in 1981 from the U.A.C.J. Since 2005 he has specialized in Prosthodontic and Oral Implantology. He is a member of American Dental Association (ADA), a fellow of the Mexican Dental Association, The American Society of Osseointegration and an associate fellow of The International Congress of Oral Implantologists,Â
Dr. Carrasco has completed continuing education courses at prestigious U.S. universities such as Loma Linda University and New York University. He was the Former President of the College of Dental Surgeons, Former professor of undergraduate and graduate of the Universidad Autonoma de Ciudad Juarez.
