Even if you practice good oral hygiene at home, you should visit a dentist every six months for professional teeth cleaning. The procedure is simple and painless, and it benefits people of all ages. Learn more about what to expect and why you should make biannual appointments below.

What Does a Professional Teeth Cleaning Include?

Cleanings generally take between 30 minutes and one hour, and they're usually performed by dental hygienists. They'll begin by examining your teeth and gums for any problems, such as gum disease. If there are no issues that need to be reported to a dentist, the hygienist will begin to clean using a small tool called a scaler. This is used to scrape away plaque and tartar gently. Plaque is a sticky film that contains bacteria, and it builds up on your teeth if food particles aren't fully removed when you brush. Tartar is hardened plaque, and it's very difficult to remove with your regular brushing routine.

Next, the hygienist will use a high-powered electric brush and a gritty toothpaste to polish your teeth. Polishing like this is safe to do twice a year, but this kind of thorough brushing will wear down the protective enamel on teeth if it's done more often than that. Your teeth will then be flossed, which provides additional cleaning and also lets the hygienist see if any areas of your gums bleed. The final step is to rinse your mouth.

What Are the Benefits?

Getting your teeth cleaned every six months helps prevent gum disease, as it efficiently removes the plaque and tartar that irritate gums. Without the cleaning, tartar remains and acts as a protective barrier for the bacteria that cause gum inflammation and bleeding. The acid in plaque can also lead to tooth decay and cavities, and cleaning prevents this problem. Finally, the process removes stains, which can help boost your confidence.

To get all the benefits of professional teeth cleaning, make an appointment with Syracuse Straight Smiles in Liverpool, NY. This family dentistry practice offers a wide range of services, including preventative care. The highly qualified Dr. Michael Grossman also takes the time to follow up with patients after their visit. To schedule a free consultation, call (315) 628-8373 or visit their website.