Dental cleanings, also known as dental prophylaxis, are professional procedures performed by a dentist to remove plaque, tartar (hardened plaque), and stains from your teeth. While regular brushing and flossing at home are essential for maintaining oral hygiene, dental cleanings take it a step further to help ensure your long-term dental health.

What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning Appointment

During a dental cleaning appointment, you can expect a thorough examination of your oral health and hygiene routine. The dentist will start by asking about any concerns or issues you may be experiencing with your teeth or gums. This is also a good opportunity for you to ask any questions or voice any concerns you may have.

Next, the dentist will carefully examine your mouth, checking for signs of gum disease, tooth decay, cavities, and other potential problems. They will use special tools like mirrors and probes to get a closer look at each tooth and check the health of your gums.

Once the examination is complete, it's time for the cleaning process to begin. Using specialized instruments such as scalers and ultrasonic devices, the dentist will remove any plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. This helps prevent gum disease and keeps your teeth clean and healthy.

After removing the plaque and tartar, the dentist will then polish your teeth using a gritty paste that helps remove surface stains and leaves them looking shiny and smooth. They may also apply a fluoride treatment to help strengthen your tooth enamel against decay.

Why Regular Dental Cleanings Are Important

Regular dental cleanings are an essential part of maintaining good oral health. While brushing and flossing at home is important, professional cleanings provide a deeper level of care that can help prevent various dental issues.

Plaque and Tartar Removal

One of the key benefits of regular dental cleanings is plaque and tartar removal. Even with diligent brushing, it's easy for plaque to build up in hard-to-reach areas. Over time, this can harden into tartar, which cannot be removed by brushing alone. Dental cleanings effectively remove both plaque and tartar, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

Early Detection of Dental Issues

Another important aspect of regular dental cleanings is that they allow for the early detection of potential problems. During your cleaning appointment, the dentist will thoroughly examine your mouth to look for signs of cavities, gum inflammation, or other issues. By identifying these problems early on, they can be treated before they worsen.

Better Overall Health 

Additionally, regular dental cleanings can contribute to better overall health. Recent research has shown a link between oral health and systemic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. Maintaining good oral hygiene through regular cleanings may help reduce the risk of developing these conditions or managing existing ones.

Ready for a radiant smile? Contact Keven P. Arnold Dentistry for exceptional dental services by calling (630) 443-4545 or visiting our office at 2020 Dean Street, Suite C, St. Charles, IL 60174. Your journey to optimal dental health starts here!