Going to the dentist is not a fun experience for many people. For some, it may be due to a significant fear. However, visiting a dentist is necessary to maintain your dental and overall health. Your mouth is the main entry point of substances into your body. More than this, it can tell you much about the health of your body and directly affect your health.

Because of how sensitive and vital it is, taking care of your mouth is essential. Regular dental appointments at Marine Park Periodontics and Implantology are the best way to ensure this. A standard procedure that the dentist may prescribe is dental cleaning. Cleanings help maintain teeth white, bright, and healthy.

Physical Exam

A physical exam is not typically done before a dental cleaning. However, the dentist or hygienist may review the patient's medical history. This includes information about current medical conditions, medications, and dental procedures.

This information is used to identify any potential risks or precautions necessary during the cleaning. The dental hygienist will check your mouth for any signs of oral health problems.
 

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling

Scaling removes plaque and calculus from the teeth above and below the gum line. Scaling is typically done by a dental hygienist using special tools, such as an ultrasonic scaler or hand scaler.

During the scaling procedure, the dental hygienist will use the scaler to gently remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth. They will pay special attention to areas most prone to buildup, such as the back molars. 

Root Planing

Root planing is a procedure that is typically performed in conjunction with scaling during a dental cleaning. It is a deep cleaning procedure that involves smoothing the teeth’s root surfaces. Root planing aims to remove calculus and bacterial toxins and smooth the root surfaces so the gums can reattach to the tooth and heal.

Dentists use almost the same tools as in scaling to remove the buildup. The hygienist will then smooth the root surfaces of the teeth to remove any rough spots where bacteria can accumulate. Root planing is typically recommended for patients with moderate to advanced gum disease. 

Gritty Toothpaste

Dental hygienists use gritty toothpaste to help remove surface stains and plaque from the teeth. The toothpaste is a mild polishing agent to help remove surface stains and discoloration. The gritty sensation should be temporary and should subside shortly after the cleaning is complete.

Flossing

Dental hygienists typically use dental floss to remove plaque and food particles between teeth during the cleaning. The hygienist will use a technique called the "C-shape." They use it to wrap the floss around the tooth, making sure to reach the gum line. They will slide the floss gently up and down to remove the plaque. They then rinse your mouth thoroughly.

Fluoride Treatment

The mineral fluoride helps strengthen teeth and prevent tooth decay. When applied to the teeth, fluoride can help remineralize the tooth enamel. It makes it more resistant to organic acid attacks from bacteria in the mouth.

For more on what happens during a dental cleaning, visit Marine Park Periodontics and Implantology at our office in Brooklyn, New York. Call (646) 863-4810 to book an appointment today.