You may have heard of the age-old expression, “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush”. The meaning of this phrase shows us that it’s better to hold onto our possessions than to risk losing them by trying to trade up for something better. This holds especially true for your precious teeth. A set of bright, healthy teeth is a valuable asset you don’t want to lose.
One of the best ways you can ensure that your teeth are strong and sturdy is by getting routine dental cleans at your dentist! Of course, dental visits may be an uncomfortable setting for some people, however, knowing exactly what happens during these necessary dental cleanings can ease your stress and make you more willing to take care of your oral health.
Put your health as a priority this year by getting your dental cleanings done at Hampstead Dental, the leading dental hygiene clinic in Melbourne!
WHAT HAPPENS AT A ROUTINE DENTAL CLEANING APPOINTMENT?
Professional dental cleaning is a very important part of maintaining great oral health. A registered Dentist or a Dental Hygienist is entitled to the duty of teeth cleaning. Getting your teeth cleaned every 6months has been highly recommended by the Australian Dental Council.
Here is what to expect during a routine dental cleaning:
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Initial inspection
Our dental professionals at Hampstead Dental will typically begin by examining your teeth and gums. Your mouth is known to harbour harmful bacteria, which if left untreated can lead to gum infection and even tooth loss. Our dentist or hygienist will check your mouth for warning signs of dental diseases – such as reddening gums, bleeding gums, inflamed gums, lesions in the mouth, tooth decay, and so on.
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Digital x-rays
Next, you will be recommended for digital x-rays of your teeth and mouth. Any dental issues that are not visible to the naked eye can be easily seen with the help of x-rays. Dental x-rays can pick up bone loss, oral abnormalities, deep tooth decay, tumours and cysts, gum disease, and movement of the teeth.A high-functioning intraoral camera may also be used to assess and monitor the current state of your oral health
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Removal of plaque and tartar
The dental cleaning will now begin, the dental or hygienist will start removing the calculus or plaque deposits from the mouth. But what is calculus or plaque? It starts off as food we eat, that begins to accumulate on your teeth and if it’s not cleaned off immediately these food particles begin to develop into slimy biofilms of bacteria called plaque.If your oral health is neglected further like over a couple of days, these plaque deposits harden and form what we call tartar or calculus. Although you can remove the soft plaque on your own by brushing and flossing every day, the hardened tartar can only be removed with a professional dental cleaning.During the cleaning, the dentist or hygienist will use a specialized ultrasonic scaler to remove the hard tartar bacteria from your teeth surfaces and also under your gum line. At Hampstead Dental numbing gel is available before cleaning to help eliminate any discomfort during this cleaning process. However, sometimes your gums may still feel a little tender afterward but a warm salty gargle that night can get rid of that discomfort.
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Power polishing
If love Melbourne coffee or maybe an occasional smoke, your teeth may at times be stained with yellow or black discolouration. These stains are difficult to remove simply by brushing. With the help of a handheld electric brush tip and gritty toothpaste, we will begin polishing your tooth surfaces to remove stains and any remaining plaque. This leaves your teeth smooth and shiny – just how they should be!
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Professional flossing
Just as you would floss your teeth at home, dental professionals will also floss your teeth to remove plaque and food particles. Our professionals will also make sure to educate and recommend proper flossing techniques to include in your daily oral hygiene regimen.
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Fluoride treatment
Fluoride treatment helps protect your teeth against cavities until you return to the dentist’s office for a cleaning or a check-up. During this treatment, our professionals will fill a soft tray with fluoride foam or gel and insert it to fit over your teeth. A minute later, the application is removed and the residue is left on your teeth to help strengthen your tooth enamel and also reduce sensitivity.
This process of professional teeth cleanings should be scheduled twice a year, while x-rays are normally done once a year. Taking care of your oral health is extremely important to maintaining your overall health. If your oral hygiene routine does not include regular brushing and flossing, then various dental problems may soon affect your mouth.You can change those habits and protect your teeth with professional dental cleanings at Hampstead Dental in Melbourne. Book your appointment with us today and say goodbye to gum disease and tooth decay!
