A great smile is irreplaceable, and regular teeth cleanings are essential to keeping your pearly whites healthy and sparkling. The dental experts at Family First Dentistry in Anchorage, AK, understand the importance of good oral hygiene. With that in mind, they’d like to offer some information about why professional teeth cleanings are so important, as well as what to expect during your appointment.

Why Teeth Cleanings Are Important

When we eat, food particles carrying microorganisms get trapped between the teeth. Over time, bacterial residue contributes to plaque and tartar formation, which leads to enamel erosion, cavities, tooth decay, bleeding gums, gingivitis, and other oral problems. Routine teeth cleanings help remove harmful plaque and tartar buildup, particularly in hard to reach places like between teeth and near the gum line.

What To Expect During Your Appointment

Teeth cleanings are usually performed by a dental hygienist. First, they’ll use a small mirror to visually inspect your mouth for any obvious problems like inflamed gums. Next, they’ll use a dental instrument known as a scalar to gently scrape off plaque and tartar buildup. Some patients may be apprehensive about the scraping noise they hear, but this is normal and the entire process is pain-free.

The next step involves the use of a high-powered electric brush. During this stage, the hygienist will also use specially-formulated toothpaste that’s grittier than regular toothpaste for an optimal scrub. Your hygienist will also give you a professional flossing, which is very important for the health of your gums. Following that, you’ll get a liquid fluoride dental rinse to remove any debris from the flossing. Finally, you’ll get a fluoridation treatment in the form of a flavored foam or gel. This usually takes just a few minutes and helps protect your teeth against cavities.

Teeth cleanings usually take less than an hour. After your session with the hygienist, your family dentist will examine your teeth to ensure everything looks as it should. They’ll also discuss any serious issues found along the way, such as cavities that need to be filled. In most cases, dentists recommend having your teeth cleaned twice a year.

To learn more about teeth cleaning, oral health, or to schedule an appointment, call Family First Dentistry at (907) 562-2820 or visit them online. You can also connect with the dental team on Facebook and Twitter.