To maintain good oral health, it is essential to keep up with regular dental cleanings, which are a major part of preventive dental care as explained by a Phoenix dentist. You live in Phoenix and know you are due for a dental cleaning, but what does that even mean? This blog post will guide you through the steps of a typical cleaning appointment so that you can feel more comfortable and ready!
Arriving at the Dental Office
Once you get to the dental office in Phoenix, the front desk staff will welcome you. They will check you in and may ask you to fill out or update your medical and dental history forms. If you are coming in for the first time, they will ask you for your insurance information to fill out some basic paperwork. Once you check in you will be directed to the waiting area. Most dental practices try to limit wait times, but it’s helpful to bring a book or your phone to pass the time if there’s a delay.
Meeting the Dental Hygienist
A dental hygienist will call you from the waiting area and lead you to the treatment room. They will introduce themselves and go over your dental history and any questions you have about your oral health. The hygienist will perform your preliminary mouth checkup for any obvious troubles, such as inflamed gums, plaque buildup in the mouth, or signs of oral diseases. They may also perform X-rays if it’s your first time visiting or if particular concerns require closer examination.
The Dental Cleaning Process
The cleaning process begins with scaling, which removes plaque on the surface of your teeth and near the gumline. This hygienist will then employ a special tool known as a scaler to carefully remove these deposits. “For instance, you may hear scraping sounds and that’s very normal. Next, the hygienist will use floss to clean between your teeth, getting rid of any small remaining particles of plaque, food, or other things stuck in your teeth. It also helps you ascertain if there are spots where your gums tend to bleed, which can indicate gum disease.
- Polishing: Following flossing, the hygienist will polish your teeth with a high-powered electric brush and gritty toothpaste. That stage removes floor stains and makes your tooth feel smooth and polished. They have heard of our toothpaste that has a good taste and you can get them on different options.
- Rinsing: After polishing, you’ll be asked to rinse your mouth to help clear out any debris. The hygienist will use either a fluoride rinse or a simple water solution based on your needs.
Fluoride Treatment
Applying Fluoride: Certain dental cleanings may include a fluoride treatment — particularly for children or those susceptible to cavities. The Dental hygienist will apply a fluoride gel or varnish to the labials of the teeth. The application is fast and painless, usually a small paintbrush or a mouthpiece filled with the fluoride solution.
Final Examination by the Dentist:
The dentist will come in after your cleaning to do one final examination. The Checkup: Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums for cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems. If you had X-rays taken during the visit, the dentist will also discuss those. After the examination, the dentist will talk with you about what they found, along with their recommendations for treatments or future visits. They will also address any questions you have regarding your oral health and provide you suggestions on how to maintain good dental hygiene at home.
Routine dental cleanings are crucial for preventing cavities, gum disease, as well as other issues related to oral health. Once you know what occurs within a dental cleaning in Phoenix, you can approach your visits with confidence and comfort. It is imperative to have your teeth cleaned professionally, though, as brushing alone will not do the job of a professional cleaning that is done a couple of times a year.