Quicky and Easy Dental Cleanings for Pristine Oral Health
Nobody wants to deal with pesky tooth problems or an unsightly smile. By maintaining excellent oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings, you can prevent dental issues such as tooth decay and gum disease, and avoid invasive treatments and having to hide your smile due to embarrassment.
Find out more about the dental cleaning process below, so you’re prepared when you visit our West Chester family dentist, Dr. Ron Briglia for your next appointment. Contact our Chester County dental practice by dialing (610) 615 0160 if you’re new or by dialing (610) 692 4440 and learn more about the teeth cleaning process.
How a Dental Cleaning Works
Dental Exam
Before your dental cleaning begins, a dental hygienist or our West Chester dentist will perform a dental exam to check for any signs of problems such as cavities or gum disease. These exams are essential for determining the condition of your dental health, and if you’ll need any additional treatments. They’re relatively quick and shouldn’t cause any pain. At least once a year, our dental team will also take digital X-rays to detect problems we can’t see with the naked eye.
Plaque and Tartar Removal
Using specialized dental tools, such as a dental scaler, our dental team will perform plaque and tartar removal.
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and can lead to cavities and gum disease. Tartar is a hard mineral deposit that forms when plaque isn’t removed and can only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist. You may feel some sensitivity during this part of the teeth-cleaning process, but it shouldn’t be painful.
Teeth Cleaning and Polishing
Once the dental plaque and the tartar buildup have been removed, our dentist will clean and polish your teeth using a special toothpaste and brush. This part of the teeth-cleaning process removes surface stains and leaves your teeth feeling smooth, shiny, and clean.
Flossing
Our dental hygienist will then floss between the teeth to remove any remaining plaque or food particles. Flossing is essential during dental cleanings because it can reach areas between teeth and gums that are difficult to clean with a toothbrush.
Fluoride Treatment
Depending on your other oral health issues, Dr. Briglia may recommend a fluoride treatment to help protect your teeth from decay. Fluoride is a mineral that can help remineralize teeth and make them more decay-resistant. The fluoride treatment may be applied as a gel, foam, or varnish that is brushed onto the teeth after the teeth cleaning, and left to sit for a few minutes before being rinsed off.
Post-Dental Cleaning Care
After a dental cleaning, you may feel a bit of sensitivity, especially if it was a deep cleaning. We recommend doing the following after your professional teeth cleaning:
- Regular brushing and flossing should be continued.
- It’s recommended to avoid foods or beverages that are extremely hot, cold, sweet, or acidic if there’s sensitivity.
- Rinse with a saltwater solution or anti-sensitivity mouthwash to alleviate discomfort.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups and dental cleanings as advised by our dentist, typically every six months.
Frequently Asked Questions
