Dental Cleanings & Exams
in Bentonville, AR
Most people should have their teeth cleaned during a routine checkup every six months, if circumstances permit, but no less frequently than annually. This is necessary to remove and prevent the buildup of tartar, also called calculus. Tartar can’t be completely eliminated with toothbrushing and flossing at home and is a major contributor to gum disease.
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Types of Teeth Cleanings
Teeth cleanings come in three main types: routine cleanings, deep cleanings, and periodontal maintenance.
- Routine cleanings, or prophylaxis, are performed every six months to remove plaque and tartar above the gumline, preventing cavities and gum disease.
- Deep cleanings, also known as scaling and root planing, are needed when gum disease is present. This procedure involves cleaning below the gumline to remove bacteria, tartar, and plaque that contribute to infection.
- Periodontal maintenance cleanings are scheduled every three to four months for patients with a history of gum disease, helping to maintain gum health and prevent further disease progression after initial treatment.
The Benefits of Routine Cleanings
Routine dental cleanings offer numerous benefits for your oral and overall health. They help prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath by removing plaque and tartar that daily brushing and flossing cannot eliminate. Regular cleanings also provide an opportunity for early detection of dental issues, such as tooth decay and oral cancer, allowing for timely treatment. Routine cleanings reduce surface stains, helping to keep your smile bright and your teeth polished. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene through regular cleanings contributes to better overall health by reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other systemic conditions linked to poor oral health.
What happens during a routine cleaning & exam?
A licensed dental hygienist will clean plaque, stains, and tartar from your teeth while assessing the health of your gums. Sometimes, X-rays will need to be taken. The doctor will then evaluate the health of your mouth, check the integrity of any fillings or other previous restorations, ensure there is no new tooth decay, and perform an oral cancer screening. These preventive visits can detect small problems before they become larger or lead to toothaches or worse. You’ll leave with your mouth feeling squeaky clean and fresh.
Dental Cleanings & Exams FAQs
What if I have questions?
We love questions! We want you to be confident in your smile because it looks good, and you know it’s healthy and strong! Whether you’re curious about available procedures, next steps, or even just general questions about your teeth and jaw, we’re always happy to answer!
Are dental exams worth it?
While a patient could technically only have their teeth cleaned, the exam is an important part of taking care of the health of your mouth. Machines and instruments used during the examination can detect issues missed by cleaning alone. While your dentist may be able to notice some surface issues during the cleaning, a full exam is necessary to assess the health of your mouth as a whole.
What is a dental cleaning?
A dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a professional treatment performed by a dentist or dental hygienist to expertly clean hard-to-brush areas and remove plaque, tartar, and stains from the teeth. Routine teeth cleanings help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental issues.
How often should I get a dental cleaning?
Typically, we recommend scheduling dental cleanings every six months. However, some individuals with greater oral health needs may require more frequent visits. Our team will recommend a cleaning schedule that fits with your unique treatment plan.
Why are dental cleanings important?
Regular cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup, which can cause cavities and gum disease. Routine preventive care also helps maintain overall oral health and can even improve your breath.
