Healthy Fluids

The American Dental Association has made it clear that personalized oral care is necessary to ensure optimal dental health. Based on findings from a recent study however, the group has emphasized the need for people to work hand-in-hand with their dentists, and that it is the dentist who must tailor the frequency of patient visits.

Guided by client dental history and individual current needs, dentists in Columbia, MD will recommend a schedule of dental visits in order to accomplish patient dental goals. Even patients with a low risk for dental disease should at least undergo a professional dental cleaning at least once in a year.

Professional Dental Cleaning

The purpose of teeth cleaning is to prevent the development of dental diseases. The procedure is also called prophylaxis, and its immediate goal is to remove tartar. Once mineral deposits accumulate, they form tartar, which then develops into unpleasant-looking plaque. Plaque can appear in different colors with brownish, blackish and/or whitish shades.

If you look closely in the mirror, you might be able to see evidence of tartar and plaque buildup. You might be tempted to try to remove the tartar yourself, but don not try to do so. You will not be able thoroughly access all areas in your mouth, and the possibility of damaging surrounding tissue is not worth the risk. This is why you need to have regular dental cleanings with a dentist. Dentists are trained in thoroughly removing dental plaque and tartar without damaging any surrounding tissue. They also have the proper tools for the best removal, and they are able to see and reach all the areas that need to be cleaned.

After the Dental Cleaning

After the procedure, you will notice a big difference with how the inside of your mouth feels. Touch your teeth and gums with your tongue, and you will feel the difference. The professional dental cleaning will have removed tartar, plaque, oily residues from foods, and even the impurities contained in certain foods, beverages, and cigarettes.

Tooth polishing will also be a part of your professional dental cleaning conducted by your dentist. The process helps remove stains the occur from coffee, tea, red wine, and other dark-colored foods and beverages. Most dentists will also employ a solution that can be used to find areas that were missed during the dental cleaning and polishing process. This way, your dentist can make sure they do a thorough job for you.

When Should You Have Your Next Dental Cleaning?

Ask your dentist, what they recommend, and use that as your guideline. If your teeth and gums ever feel like they have lost the clean feeling, you can always make a dental cleaning appointment sooner than scheduled. Some people get dental cleanings more frequently than twice a year. Although rare, there are even instances of people who get a dental cleaning every month. It is not necessary, but it definitely will prevent the development of a dental disease.