May 16, 2022

Dental cleanings in Hopedale, IL, are vital in keeping your oral health in tiptop shape. In fact, the ADA recommends you visit the dental office for teeth cleanings at least two times a year. However, if you are dealing with tooth decay and gum disease, you’ll need more frequent dental cleanings.

The goal of the procedure is to remove plaque and tartar that have accumulated on the surface of your teeth. Tartar is responsible for causing tooth decay and periodontal disease. Routine teeth cleanings will significantly reduce your risk of developing oral health problems. If you feel anxious about your upcoming dental cleaning procedure, knowing what to expect might help. Understanding how long the process takes and what will happen will help ease your fears.

An Overview of Professional Dental Cleanings, IL

Overview of Routine Teeth Cleanings

How Long Does the Procedure Take?

Typically, it takes about 30 to 60 minutes to clean your teeth. The entire time you will comfortably lie back in a dental chair while your dentist efficiently removes plaque and tartar on your teeth. The more plaque and tartar you have, the longer the procedure will take.

What Are the Steps Involved in Routine Teeth Cleanings?

1.     Oral Exam

Before the actual cleaning, an oral exam will take place. Your dentist will use a concave mirror to check your mouth for signs of trouble. If a problem is detected, a decision will be made whether to push through with the cleaning or treat the problem before proceeding.

2.     Removing Plaque and Tartar

Dental cleaning is an effective way to gently and effectively scrape off plaque and tartar from your teeth. Professional dental cleanings are more thorough compared to your usual brushing and flossing because your dentist uses special instruments to remove harmful plaque from the surfaces of your teeth and along the gum line.

3.     Polishing Your Teeth

After removing all the plaque and hardened tartar, your dentist will use gritty toothpaste and a high-powered toothbrush to polish your teeth. If you get lucky, you’ll get the chance to choose your favorite tooth polish flavor. The sound of the electric brush may seem intimidating, but surprisingly, the experience is painless.

4.     Expert Flossing

After polishing, your dentist will floss your teeth to remove any remaining plaque hiding in the narrow crevices between them. This is the final step of the dental cleaning process.

5.     Rinsing

You’ll be asked to rinse your mouth to remove any residues of the polish.

6.     Checkup

Now that your mouth is squeaky clean, your dentist will give you information based on what they discovered during the oral exam. Patient education is part of their responsibility as dental care providers.

Your dentist will educate you on what to do to help maintain your oral health by showing you the proper brushing techniques and how to floss your teeth efficiently.

An Overview of Professional Dental Cleanings, IL

Do You Have More Questions About Dental Cleanings in Hopedale, IL?

If you still have more questions about dental cleaning, we’re always happy to help you. At Smalltown Dental, our goal is to keep you comfortable while receiving dental treatments.

Our dental office provides a wide array of top-notch dental care services that will help address your concerns. Our team has the skills, knowledge, and tools needed to keep your mouth happy and healthy. Contact us today for an appointment.

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