A dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis or Scaling and Polishing, is a vital step in maintaining good oral health. It's a comprehensive process that tackles plaque and tartar buildup, leaving your teeth sparkling clean and breath fresh.
The entire cleaning process typically takes 30-60 minutes, depending on the complexity of your case. Remember, regular dental cleanings, combined with good oral hygiene practices at home, are essential for a healthy and confident smile.
1. Scaling:
The dentist or hygienist uses specialized instruments, like ultrasonic scalers or hand scalers, to gently scrape away plaque and tartar buildup from the surface of your teeth, including areas above and below the gum line. This helps prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
2. Polishing:
Once the scaling is complete, a rotating brush with a polishing paste is used to buff and smooth the surface of your teeth. This removes any remaining debris and stains, leaving your teeth feeling clean and polished. Polishing also helps prevent future plaque buildup by creating a smoother surface for teeth.