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When you visit the dentist for a regular teeth cleaning, the hygienist removes plaque and polishes your teeth. But what exactly is tooth polishing and why is it so important? The dentists at Main Street Dental in La Crosse, WI, explain how this procedure makes teeth shiny and smooth and your mouth feel cleaner.

When you receive professional teeth cleaning, the dental hygienist or dentist first assesses your oral health, thoroughly examining your mouth. They then perform a cleaning. In many cases, a dental hygienist performs a procedure called “scaling” to remove excess plaque and tartar from the teeth. This can be done using ultrasonic devices that remove bacteria and hard deposits with water or by hand, with an instrument that looks like a small metal hook.

tooth polishingOnce scaling is complete, it’s time to polish. Tooth polishing removes stains and plaque from the surfaces of your teeth. A dental hygienist will place a dab of gritty toothpaste onto a rubber cup. The polishing cup is attached to a motorized instrument that removes excess plaque and dark stains. When tooth polishing is complete, your teeth will feel smoother and appear shiny. 

Teeth cleaning is an important part of preventative dentistry, helping to ward off periodontal disease and prevent cavities from forming. While tooth polishing is considered more of a cosmetic procedure, it does also remove bacteria before it turns into plaque or hardens on the teeth forming excess tartar.

Whether you need a teeth cleaning, dental X-rays, or are considering restorative dentistry, stop by Main Street Dental in La Crosse today. With state-of-the-art dental technology and more than three decades of experience, this team of dental professionals will help you improve and maintain your oral health. Call (608) 784-4063 to make an appointment, or visit the website to learn more about this dental practice.

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