Most people have heard that they need regular dental checkups and teeth cleanings, but do you need to report to your dentist if your teeth feel fine? Although it might seem like oral care overkill, teeth cleanings are a crucial component of your dental and overall health. Here is a brief guide to understanding dental cleanings, and why you shouldn’t skip your next visit.

Understanding Professional Dental Cleanings

Why Are Teeth Cleanings So Important? 

Whenever you eat, your teeth are bathed in microscopic particles, which create a biofilm of plaque on the surfaces of your teeth. If this plaque is left in place for longer than 24 to 72 hours, it hardens into tartar, which cannot be removed with a toothbrush. Over time, tartar can also mineralize, creating unsightly yellow, blue, or even green accumulations on the teeth. However, dentists can remove tartar easily with dental tools, removing bacteria from your smile and keeping your gums healthy. 

What Happens During a Teeth Cleaning? 

Before your dental cleaning begins, your dentist will talk with you about any concerns you have. Next, your teeth will be examined carefully by collecting several X-rays of your teeth and jaw. After your dental hygienist and dentist have checked for underlying decay, they will start cleaning your teeth. Special tools are used to gently scrape away plaque and tartar, and the teeth are checked carefully for cavities. Next, the teeth are flossed and brushed with a gritty polish to remove any additional remnants.

Whether you are due for teeth cleaning or you have other questions about your oral health, the team at Chinook Family Dentistry in Anchorage, AK, can help you meet your dental goals. With a broad range of services including root canals, dental implants, and the treatment of periodontal disease, you can take care of major services between routine exams. To learn more about their services, visit their website or call (907) 272-8422.