What are the different types of dental cleanings?
There are several types of dental cleanings, depending on the health of your teeth and gums.
The first is a routine dental cleaning, which is typically recommended every six months for patients who have healthy gums and don't have active periodontal disease.
For patients who have a history of gum disease or significant plaque and tartar buildup, we may recommend more frequent cleanings or periodontal maintenance.
If you have deeper gum pockets and active periodontal disease, a deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, may be necessary to remove bacterial deposits from below the gumline.
Why are dental cleanings important?
Dental cleanings are important because they help prevent plaque, tartar, and bacteria from accumulating around your teeth and gums.
Even when you're brushing and flossing regularly, there may be areas that are difficult to clean thoroughly at home.
When bacterial plaque builds up, it can contribute to gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums. If gum disease progresses, it can develop into periodontitis, a more advanced condition that affects the tissues and bone supporting your teeth.
For many patients with healthy gums, cleanings every six months are appropriate. However, if you've had gum disease in the past or tend to accumulate plaque and tartar more quickly, we may recommend appointments every three to four months.
Our goal is to stay ahead of these problems and help you maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Are dental cleanings painful?
For the most part, dental cleanings aren't painful. However, some patients experience mild discomfort if their teeth or gums are sensitive.
Sometimes the sensitivity comes from the dental instruments or the water we use during the cleaning.
If you're uncomfortable, we can use a topical numbing gel to help reduce sensitivity. We may also offer nitrous oxide, commonly called laughing gas, to help you relax during your appointment.
Generally, the healthier your teeth and gums are, the more comfortable your dental cleanings tend to be.
How long do dental cleanings take?
The length of a dental cleaning depends on the condition of your teeth and gums and how much buildup needs to be removed.
For patients with healthy gums, the cleaning itself may take approximately 20 to 30 minutes. If there's more plaque or tartar buildup, it may take 40 to 50 minutes or longer.
If you haven't had your teeth cleaned in several years, we may need to schedule additional appointments to remove the buildup thoroughly.
Sometimes our hygienist will complete an initial cleaning and have you return a week or two later to finish the treatment after your gums have had some time to settle down.
If you have deeper periodontal pockets or active gum disease, we may recommend scaling and root planing instead of a routine cleaning.
During a deep cleaning, we typically use local anesthesia to numb the area so we can clean below the gumline while keeping you comfortable.
Can dental cleanings damage your teeth?
Professional dental cleanings are designed to protect your teeth by removing plaque and tartar that can contribute to cavities and gum disease.
Although the instruments we use are strong and have specialized tips, they're designed to remove deposits from the teeth without damaging healthy enamel when used properly.
Our dental hygienists are trained to use these instruments carefully and effectively. When performed appropriately, routine dental cleanings are generally safe for your teeth.
Why are your teeth sensitive after a cleaning?
Sometimes patients notice increased tooth sensitivity after a professional cleaning.
This can happen when plaque and tartar deposits are removed, particularly if those deposits were covering exposed or sensitive areas of the teeth.
You may notice temporary sensitivity to cold water, certain foods, or chewing. In most cases, this discomfort improves as your teeth and gums settle down after treatment.
If you're experiencing sensitivity, we may recommend an over-the-counter toothpaste designed for sensitive teeth.
We also have prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste and other treatments available for patients who need additional help managing sensitivity.
If the discomfort continues or becomes more severe, let us know so we can evaluate the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
If you’re ready to schedule an exam or would like to learn more about our services, we’d love to hear from you. Call us at (916) 848-2145 or email [email protected]. We look forward to caring for your smile.