Health experts everywhere recommend annual teeth cleanings from your dentist to maintain optimal oral health. Still, even those who brush and floss regularly may wonder: what exactly does this cleaning accomplish? The experts at Nicholas J. Hurley D.D.S., P.A. in Thomasville, NC, share everything you need to know.

A dentist will typically perform your exam, which consists of diagnostic X-rays, a gum disease evaluation, and oral cancer screening. Sometimes, your dental hygienist will conduct a thorough cleaning in the same visit.

During the cleaning, your hygienist will remove any hard-to-reach plaque, which is a bacteria-laden film on the tooth’s outer surface. If untreated, this plaque can inflame your gums and lead to gum disease. This invisible but harmful plaque can also eventually harden into tartar. Your dental hygienist will use special tools to scrape the plaque from your gum line. If it’s left to accumulate, it can provoke issues like tooth decay, cavities, and gingivitis. Since tartar can’t be removed at home, an annual cleaning is particularly important.  

Once your teeth are free of plaque, tartar, and debris, your dental hygienist will use a special device and formulated paste to polish the teeth. Between morning coffee and a nightly cup of tea or glass of wine, it doesn’t take long for unsightly stains to build up on the teeth. Your hygienist can remove these pesky stains, leaving your teeth bright and shiny.

Many patients enjoy professional teeth cleanings due to the squeaky-clean feeling they lend in the days thereafter. Annual cleanings help it stay that way. Before plaque and gingivitis can hurt your oral health, a quick, easy dental cleaning will combat these issues.

Regular dental care is vital to the health of your teeth down the road. For high-quality dental care in Thomasville, NC, look no further than Nicholas J. Hurley D.D.S., P.A. The experienced dentist and his team will ensure you maintain a gorgeous, healthy smile for life. To schedule an appointment, call today at (336) 476-1109. For more information, visit the dentistry’s website.