Do you have an appointment for teeth cleaning coming up? Teeth cleanings are necessary for patients of all ages, regardless of oral health status. They help patients to maintain healthy teeth and gums, which is why they are so essential. While most people follow the recommendation to get them done twice a year, there are scenarios in which this does not happen. When teeth cleanings get skipped or forgotten about, patients are much more prone to being nervous when the time does come. Thankfully, there are a few things to be aware of that can be helpful when setting expectations.
Outlined below are a few expectations that can be helpful to review prior to getting a dental cleaning. This information can go a long way for those who have not had a cleaning in a long time or who are feeling anxious about it.
During the teeth cleaning appointment, the dentist or dental hygienist will thoroughly clean the patient's teeth using an electronic toothbrush and fluoride-based toothpaste. Additionally, the teeth will be flossed to ensure that there is not any build-up, which could lead to infection.
Teeth cleaning appointments often involve the application of fluoride, too. Fluoride remineralizes the enamel, which ensures a strong and healthy surface that can fight off cavities, as well as wear and tear. Fluoride application is usually completed in five minutes, and it only involves gel or liquid application.
A lot of teeth cleaning appointments are done twice a year, which means the dentist may also require a thorough examination. Cleanings and examinations are usually combined twice a year to maximize the patient's time and the dentist's resources. However, some patients do require more frequent teeth cleanings, due to the risk for gum disease or cavities. In the case of frequent teeth cleanings, an examination may not be needed every time.
During the biannual teeth cleaning appointments, the dentist may also require x-rays during one of the two appointments. X-rays give the dentist a better idea of the status of hard-to-see areas, such as beneath the bone or in between teeth. X-rays also give dentists a better idea of how often teeth cleanings are needed for each patient.
Patients may expect to experience sensitivity during and after teeth cleaning. Depending on the frequency of cleanings, patients may be more used to the sensation, while others who only get them twice a year may not be as comfortable with the feeling. The teeth and gums are usually both sensitive for a few hours after a teeth cleaning is done, however, these feelings should not extend past a few hours.
Looking for more information on teeth cleanings? Talking with a general dentist is the best place to start. They can answer any questions and go over concerns, which can be helpful for patients feeling nervous about an upcoming appointment. Reach out today to get scheduled for an appointment or to find out more about what to expect.
Request an appointment here: https://www.chanfamilydentistry.com or call Chan Family Dentistry at (510) 214-8450 for an appointment in our San Lorenzo office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Teeth Cleaning in San Lorenzo, CA.
When a child first goes to the dentist for a dental cleaning, there is often anxiety and resistance, which is completely normal. Thankfully, general dentists who work with children are trained to be extra patient and gentle. Additionally, they are able to provide parents with tips that can be helpful in preparing the child for…
Following the treatment of periodontal disease, it is vital that a patient keeps the dental checkup appointments that the dentist recommends. Periodontal maintenance, which typically requires dental check-ups every three months post-treatment, is essential for continuing results. Without routine maintenance, the patient risks a relapse in oral health.Periodontal disease is a chronic oral health condition…
Many people do not know that regular dental checkups are the most important preventive dentistry procedures against oral cancer. The dentist’s objective is to prevent and diagnose any issue as early as possible, when treatment is easier. Preventive dentistry is all about keeping the oral cavity healthy for a long time. Oral cancer screening is…
Preventive dentistry involves using the right products. This includes selecting the right toothpaste. There is a type of toothpaste for every person. If you want to enhance your preventive dentistry brushing strategy, here are some tips on choosing the right toothpaste.The attending dentist will be the judge of the most suitable toothpaste. The dentist knows…
Considering Invisalign®? Read on to learn more about this teeth-straightening option. Many individuals who desire to straighten their teeth and fix their smile's spacing problems can now opt for Invisalign®. Traditional metal braces used to be the only choice for orthodontic treatment, but many people struggled with them due to their appearance. Invisalign uses a…
As a parent, it is your job to protect all aspects of your child’s health. A children’s dentist can help you establish good dental habits early on in life so your child can have optimal oral care, which can be a link to other parts of their health. This article will give three basic tips…