The value of essential, routine professional teeth cleanings
At Williams Dental Studio, our “family” treats your family with trusted, consistent, routine, and proactive care. This care helps to keep you out of the treatment chair and fully engaged in your life! This approach is also based on a solid foundation of regular check-ups. No check-up at our office in Stockbridge, Georgia, would be complete without professional teeth cleaning by one of our patient, gentle, and highly skilled hygienists. By maintaining this service and the oral exams that accompany these regular visits, patients of all ages can keep their natural teeth for life.
“Basic” cleanings meet exceptional care
The American Dental Association recommends that individuals undergo professional teeth cleaning every six months, regardless of their oral and medical condition. People with risk factors for certain conditions, such as oral cancers and gum disease, must visit us more frequently. That way, our dentist, Dr. Jessica Williams, can stay ahead of any emerging or potential problems. Risk factors for these and other oral conditions include:
- Smoking and the use of other products that contain tobacco and nicotine
- Comorbidities such as diabetes, which can make one vulnerable to infections and interfere with wound healing
- Inconsistent oral hygiene and other challenges to adequate care at home
- Poor or inadequate nutrition
- Use of medications that are associated with conditions like dry mouth, which makes your teeth more vulnerable to dental decay and other problems
- Untreated conditions or behaviors like bruxism (chronic teeth grinding)
Lingering food particles contribute to the development of destructive plaque. The natural bacteria in our mouths feed off starches and sugars in foods. Together, they produce sticky bacterial plaque. Plaque erodes at the teeth and triggers a process that ultimately inflames and breaks down the supportive gums and other tissues of the periodontium. So, it is imperative to continually and diligently remove food with brushing and flossing. During your routine appointment, our hygienists advise on good cleaning techniques and other products that may be appropriate; for instance, special floss threaders and picks help to clean hard-to-reach spaces (like underneath dental bridges).
Even patients who never fail to brush and floss properly will still need to have their teeth cleaned by one of our dental hygienists. Only they are trained and have the proper tools to remove stubborn, stuck-on plaque or tartar. Our patients also love how fresh their mouths feel after cleaning and polishing. This process removes surface stains to keep your teeth a dazzling white shade, and by minimizing bacterial overgrowth, we also prevent halitosis! Standard or basic cleanings are all that is needed to protect against decay, gum disease, and other distressing conditions that affect your health and quality of life. However, as required, we can recommend a “deep clean” and other services to stop existing gingival inflammation from progressing. Damage can be reversed when detected and resolved early in the disease process.
Frequently Asked Questions About Basic Cleanings
What is a basic dental cleaning?
A basic dental cleaning, or prophylaxis, is a standard preventive treatment performed by a dental hygienist to eliminate plaque, tartar buildup, and surface stains from your teeth. It typically involves three main steps: scaling, polishing, and an oral health assessment. Scaling removes hardened tartar deposits above and below the gumline using specialized tools. Polishing smooths the tooth surfaces and helps eliminate surface stains. During the cleaning, your hygienist will also check your gums, teeth, and mouth for signs of decay, gum disease, or other issues that may need further treatment.
How often should I get a dental cleaning?
Most dentists recommend getting a dental cleaning every six months. This schedule helps maintain good oral health and lets your dental team catch any developing issues early. However, some individuals may require more frequent cleanings. Patients with gum disease, a history of cavities, orthodontic appliances, or other risk factors may benefit from cleanings every three to four months. Your dentist will evaluate your oral health and make a personalized recommendation based on your needs.
Is a dental cleaning the same as a deep cleaning?
No, a basic dental cleaning is different from a deep cleaning. A standard cleaning focuses on the visible surfaces of the teeth and just below the gumline. It is preventive care for patients with healthy gums. In contrast, a deep cleaning, also called scaling and root planing, is a therapeutic procedure used to treat gum disease. It involves removing plaque and tartar from deep below the gumline and smoothing the roots of the teeth to help gums reattach. Deep cleanings are typically done in multiple visits and may require local anesthesia.
Does a dental cleaning hurt?
For most patients, a dental cleaning is not painful. However, you may experience mild pressure or sensitivity, especially if you have sensitive teeth or significant plaque buildup. Dental hygienists use gentle techniques and can adjust the process to your comfort level. If you’re anxious or have sensitive gums, let your hygienist know so they can take extra care. Topical numbing gels are sometimes available for added comfort during the cleaning.
Why are regular dental cleanings important?
Routine dental cleanings help prevent cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss by removing harmful plaque and bacteria. They also allow dental professionals to detect problems early, such as oral cancer, broken fillings, or bone loss. Cleanings contribute to fresher breath and can help lower your risk for health conditions linked to poor oral hygiene, like heart disease or diabetes.
Can a dental cleaning whiten my teeth?
While a dental cleaning removes surface stains caused by food, drinks, or tobacco, it won’t change the natural color of your teeth. Professional teeth whitening treatments are more effective if you’re looking for a brighter smile. However, cleanings often leave your teeth looking noticeably cleaner and fresher.
What happens if I skip dental cleanings?
Skipping dental cleanings allows plaque and tartar to build up, leading to cavities, gum inflammation, and periodontal disease. Over time, untreated issues can progress, requiring more extensive and costly treatment like root canals or tooth extractions. Regular cleanings are a simple way to protect your long-term oral health.
Book Your Dental Cleaning in Stockbridge Today
Are you due for a dental check-up? Call (770) 506-2443 to schedule an appointment today at Williams Dental Studio in Stockbridge, GA.
