Dental Cleaning

Many people head to their Cincinnati dentist’s office once or twice a year for a formal dental cleaning. At this procedure, the dentist or dental hygienist will take X-rays to look for any signs of tooth decay, remove any plaque and tartar that has built up, and inspect the mouth for signs of gum disease. Bacteria thrive in the calcium-based deposits around the teeth and gums, and can infect the teeth and gums. When the tissues surrounding the tooth are infected, the bone can recede and rendering the tooth even more vulnerable to infection or decay. The situation frequently develops into a condition known as periodontal disease which is the leading cause of tooth loss.

Though tooth loss may not seem that bad, if the conditions under which the tooth loss happened are not addressed, a patient can experience more serious problems and change in the alignment of the teeth. Additionally, gum disease has been linked with increased risk of heart disease and diabetes.

Simple, preventative care is the best method for avoiding any complicated dental problems, and the first step is regular dental cleaning. Most Cincinnati dental professionals will inquire about a patient’s daily oral hygiene routine, and make suggestions or recommendations about how they can improve results based on their findings.

Cincinnati dentists and oral hygienists use a variety of tools to perform their work, including special tools called "scalers", which can reach plaque build-up beneath the gum line. Some employ ultrasonic tools that vibrate and break up any plaque, which is then rinsed away with water. At the conclusion of a cleaning the dentist or hygienist will use polishing tools to clear away any surface debris and leave teeth feeling smooth and shiny.

During a traditional cleaning, the patient may have some x-rays taken to determine the presence of any cavities. If a patient has not had a cleaning for a long time, the process will likely take a bit longer than those who have frequent cleanings, but generally appointments last from thirty minutes to one hour.

If at any point during the dental cleaning a patient experiences pain, he/she should tell the dentist or hygienist right away. Many Cincinnati dentists offer dental procedures under a light sedation to make the patient more comfortable. Patients who have not had a cleaning in a while may receive instructions about the importance of regular dental hygiene which when followed can greatly improve the overall health of the patient.