Cleanings
Regular dental cleanings in Albany are an important aspect of maintaining dental health. A dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a professional deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque, tartar, and stains from the teeth and gums. It not only helps to keep your teeth clean and bright but also prevents various oral diseases.
Let’s discuss the importance of dental cleanings, what to expect during a professional cleaning procedure, how often you should get them done, and the benefits of regular cleanings for oral health.
Importance of Dental Cleanings
Regular brushing and flossing at home help to remove food particles and plaque from the surface of your teeth. However, some areas are difficult to reach with a toothbrush or dental floss, such as between the teeth and under the gum line. Over time, bacteria can build up in these areas, leading to plaque formation and tartar (hardened plaque).
Tartar is not removable by regular brushing; only professional dental cleaning can remove it. If left untreated, tartar can cause gum disease, leading to tooth loss and other health problems.
Moreover, dental cleanings also help identify potential oral health issues early on. During a cleaning procedure, your dentist will examine your mouth for signs of cavities, gum disease, or other oral health concerns. Early detection can prevent these issues from worsening and save you from more extensive treatments in the future.
How Often Should You Get Dental Cleanings?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends getting dental cleanings every six months. However, this recommendation may vary depending on your individual oral health needs. Your dentist will determine how often you should get cleanings based on age, overall health, and any existing oral health problems.
If you have good dental hygiene habits and no history of gum disease or other issues, your dentist may recommend getting cleanings once a year. On the other hand, if you have a higher risk of dental problems, such as smokers or individuals with diabetes, your dentist may suggest more frequent cleanings.
Benefits of Regular Dental Cleanings
As mentioned earlier, regular dental cleanings help to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums. This prevents gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss and other health issues. Our practice specializes in periodontics; we help prevent and treat gum disease.
Dental cleanings also involve polishing teeth, removing stains, and leaving them looking brighter and whiter.
During a cleaning appointment, your dentist will examine your mouth for any signs of oral health issues. Early detection can prevent these problems from worsening and save you from more extensive treatments.
Studies have shown that oral health is closely linked to overall health. Regular dental cleanings can help prevent bacteria buildup in the mouth, which can lead to other health issues such as heart disease and respiratory problems.
Preventive care is always less expensive and time-consuming than treating a problem once it has already developed. Regular dental cleanings can save you from costly and lengthy treatments in the long run.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure, and dental cleanings can help you maintain optimal dental health.
What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning
A typical dental cleaning appointment includes the following steps:
- Examination: Your dentist will examine your mouth to identify any potential oral health problems.
- Scaling: This process involves using special tools to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums.
- Polishing: After scaling, your dentist will polish your teeth, leaving them shiny and smooth.
- Flossing: Your dentist will floss between your teeth to remove any remaining debris or particles.
- Fluoride Treatment: In some cases, we may recommend a fluoride treatment to strengthen your teeth and protect against cavities.
Overall, a dental cleaning is a quick and painless procedure that typically takes less than an hour to complete. However, if you have severe gum disease or haven’t had a cleaning for a long time, it may take multiple visits to complete the process.
Dental Cleanings in Albany
Dental cleanings are essential to maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing diseases. It is crucial to get regular cleanings every six months or so for optimal oral health, as Dr. Jason Spychala or Dr. Kara Engelbrektson recommends. So, if you’re due for a cleaning appointment, don’t hesitate to schedule one with Albany Family Dentistry today!
Our services include family dentistry, general dentistry, periodontics, and dental implants in Albany, MN. Keep smiling and keep your oral health in check!
