A professional dental cleaning includes more than just the cleaning and polishing of teeth. In addition to what most patients are familiar with, the other services include a thorough hard and soft tissue evaluation, oral cancer screening, periodontal disease screening, and much more. Your cleaning appointment will include a dental exam and the following:
Removal of Plaque Plaque is a sticky white, almost invisible film that coats teeth and contains bacteria. It is a growing colony of saliva, food debris, and living bacteria. This bacteria produces acids that attack tooth enamel causing cavities, gingivitis and bad breath. If left untreated, it hardens into tartar. Fighting plaque is the most critical factor in protecting your teeth and gums. Plaque can lead to Periodontal Disease and serious health issues.
Removal of Tartar (also known as Dental Calculus), tartar is a crusty deposit that has been left on the tooth and is firmly bonded to the tooth surface. Tartar is acidic and can eat through the tooth enamel causing cavities. It forms above and below the gum line and can only be removed by a dental professional with special dental instruments. .
Teeth Polishing Removes stains and plaque and leaves your tooth enamel glossy and smooth. Polishing goes beyond achieving a brighter smile. When paired with dental scaling, in which plaque and tartar are scraped from the teeth, tooth polishing can freshen your breath and help you avoid tooth decay.
