It’s Been A While Since I’ve Had a Cleaning
- Posted on: Sep 15 2018
Nothing is more frustrating than going in to see your dentist and learning that you need serious work done. Root canals, crowns, bridges: none of these are requested by patients who don’t need them! If it has been a little while since you’ve seen a dentist, then you might be a little apprehensive about finally making that appointment.
But don’t worry. We are here to help you have the best smile, and getting your teeth cleaned is a part of keeping them healthy and beautiful. Keep reading to learn about what happens during a routine dental cleaning.
Before the Cleaning
Before you even go back into the room, you will fill out paperwork and provide insurance information (if you are using insurance) for your dentist. Then you’ll be taken back to your own room to discuss any issues you may be having with your teeth, such as if you have any sensitivity or pain.
The Cleaning
During your cleaning, your hygienist will remove plaque and tartar buildup from all surface areas of the teeth. This keeps that pesky plaque from creating cavities later on. Your hygienist might use handheld tools to get particularly stubborn spots, but that is very normal.
Flossing is an important part of daily dental hygiene, and we make sure to include flossing in your cleaning as well. This helps remove any leftover plaque from your cleaning, as well as any residual debris that might have been hanging around!
After your teeth are free of plaque, they will be scrubbed clean with a brightening polishing tool. This little scrub helps remove some surface level stains and gives your mouth a nice fresh feeling.
Examination
After your cleaning comes a quick examination. Using your X-rays and some small handheld tools, your dentist will look at your teeth and determine how healthy they are. If you need cavities filled or other work, your dentist will discuss that with you. Having regular cleanings can help avoid needing crowns or bridges as you get older, so make sure to schedule regular check-ups often.
If you have questions about your dental health, call us today at (713) 943-9832 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Covell.
Posted in: Dental Exam and Cleaning