A visit to the dentist does not have to be an anxiety triggering experience. At Novomed, we understand that some of our patients may feel anxious about their dental cleaning appointment. Our western trained dental specialists want to help and always try to make your office visits as comfortable and easy as possible. Making it to the dental chair will bring you closer to better oral health and will have you smiling with greater confidence. For most patients, teeth cleaning is simple and pain-free.
How Long Does it Take?
The duration of the procedure will depend on the amount of debris on the tooth surface as well as the length of the interval since your last visit to the dentist. A dental cleaning can last between 15-30 minutes and in some cases, can take up to 1 hour. Your appointment may take longer if X-rays need to be taken or to discuss options for treatment if an issue is discovered.
What Happens During a Teeth Cleaning Appointment?
Physical Examination
Before the actual dental cleaning process begins, your dentist or dental hygienist will start with a physical exam of your entire mouth. They will use a small mirror to inspect around your teeth and gums, looking out for any signs of inflamed gums or other concerns.
Removing Tartar and Plaque
Next, with a small mirror, the dental hygienist will use a scaler to remove tartar and plaque around your gum line and in between your teeth. Sound off scraping will be present but be assured that this is totally normal. Some areas may have more tartar buildup than others. Those areas may take more to clean. Brushing and flossing daily can reduce your chances of developing tartar buildup.
Grainy Toothpaste Cleaning
Once your teeth are totally tartar-free, the hygienist will use a high-powered electric brush to brush them. This brush will make a grinding noise. It may sound a little bit scary, but it is the best way to deep clean and remove any remains of tartar. The grainy consistency of the toothpaste used during this step is to be used only by a professional. This special toothpaste polishes the teeth and is deemed safe to use up to twice a year.
Expert Flossing
Flossing regularly at home is important, but nothing beats an expert flossing session! Your dentist can get deep between your teeth to locate any potential trouble spots where you may bleed at the gums. If you are not flossing regularly, your dentist will most likely encourage you to begin doing so.
Rinsing
Rinsing out your mouth of any debris will be the next step. You may receive a rinse that contains fluoride.
Fluoride Treatment
This is typically the last step of the dental cleaning process. Fluoride treatment is used to protect your teeth to help fight against cavities and can protect them for up to several months. You will be able to choose a flavor of your liking. Your dentist will then place the foamy gel or paste into a mouthpiece that fits over your teeth. Fluoride varnish hardens upon contact with saliva, so you can eat and drink immediately after the treatment.
Additional Steps May Be Required
Whether you need additional steps or not, the key is to continue attending your routine dental checkups. Professional dental cleanings are to be scheduled twice a year, while x-rays are typically done once a year. Depending on your dentist’s observations, they may conduct other exams during your visit. By understanding what is going on prior to your visit will help you feel more at ease and you may even begin to look forward to your teeth cleaning appointments.
