Why Dental Cleanings Are Essential?

A preventive dental cleaning is also known as a routine dental cleaning or prophylaxis, and it’s usually a short visit that includes scaling and polishing your teeth. Many patients schedule these appointments every six to twelve months, but it often depends on your dental health needs. At Ustick Dental Office, our dentist may recommend more frequent visits if you suffer from gum disease. Scaling removes plaque and tartar buildup from tooth surfaces using handheld instruments. Polishing smoothes the surface of the teeth to prevent plaque buildup in the future. 

What Happens During Regular Exams and Cleanings?

During routine exams, your dentist in Boise, Idaho will examine your teeth for signs of common oral diseases, including tooth decay and gum disease. These exams are also crucial for monitoring tooth development in children. Your dentist in 83704 will also inspect your gums for signs of gingivitis. Gum disease can often be treated with non-surgical methods rather than surgery if detected early.

Your dentist may recommend one or more deep cleanings for patients who have skipped regular cleanings. Deep cleaning involves removing all plaque deposits below the gum line and smoothing out rough spots on the root of your tooth, making it easier for bacteria to cling to your teeth and gums.

Depending on the condition of your oral health, you may also need to have X-rays taken during your exam. X-rays allow your dentist to identify hidden areas of decay between your teeth or underneath your fillings. They can also help your dentist monitor any issues with your jawbone due to osteoporosis or other degenerative conditions.

During your checkup, your dentist will screen you for oral cancer. If abnormal tissue is noted during the screening, we may perform a biopsy to confirm whether or not you have cancer. Early treatment is essential to ensure the best outcomes. This includes surgery to remove cancerous tissue and radiation therapy to kill any remaining cancer cells. Call us to learn more.

The Benefits of Dental Cleaning

Dental cleaning, also known as dental prophylaxis or teeth cleaning, is a professional dental procedure performed by a dental hygienist or dentist to remove plaque, tartar (calculus), and stains from the surfaces of the teeth. Regular dental cleanings offer several benefits for oral health and overall well-being:

• Plaque and Tartar Removal: Dental cleanings effectively remove plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth, particularly in areas that are difficult to reach with regular brushing and flossing. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums, leading to tooth decay and gum disease if not removed promptly. Tartar is a hardened plaque that can only be removed with professional dental instruments.
• Prevention of Tooth Decay: By removing plaque and tartar from the teeth, dental cleanings help prevent tooth decay (cavities) and reduce the risk of developing dental caries. Plaque produces acids that erode tooth enamel and create cavities, so regular cleanings help maintain a healthy oral environment and protect against decay.
• Gum Disease Prevention:Dental cleanings play a crucial role in preventing gum disease (periodontal disease) by removing bacteria and toxins that contribute to gum inflammation and infection. Gum disease ranges from mild gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) to more severe periodontitis (loss of gum tissue and bone support). Regular cleanings help keep the gums healthy and reduce the risk of gum disease progression.
• Fresh Breath:Professional dental cleanings help eliminate bacteria and food particles that can cause bad breath (halitosis). Removing plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and along the gumline helps improve oral hygiene and freshen breath.
• Brighter, Whiter Smile:Dental cleanings can help remove surface stains and discoloration from the teeth, resulting in a brighter, whiter smile. Polishing the teeth during the cleaning process helps smooth out rough areas and enhances the appearance of tooth enamel.
• Early Detection of Dental Issues:During a dental cleaning, the dental hygienist or dentist examines the teeth, gums, and oral tissues for signs of dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and other oral health issues. Early detection allows for prompt intervention and treatment, preventing potential complications and preserving oral health.
• Improved Overall Health: Maintaining good oral health through regular dental cleanings is linked to improved overall health and reduced risk of systemic conditions such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Poor oral health has been associated with an increased risk of certain medical conditions, so prioritizing dental cleanings is an important aspect of preventive healthcare.

Overall, dental cleanings are an essential component of preventive dental care and play a vital role in maintaining optimal oral health, preventing dental problems, and promoting overall well-being. It's recommended to schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings every six months or as recommended by your dentist to ensure that your teeth and gums remain healthy and free from disease.

Regular dental exams and cleanings are essential to maintaining oral health and overall well-being. If you are due for your next cleaning and exam, visit Ustick Dental Office at 9733 W Ustick Rd, Boise, ID 83704, or call (208) 375-8720 to schedule an appointment.