Many feel anxious before their first dental cleaning with a family dentist, but the anxieties can be lessened by having a clear idea of what might take place during the dental cleaning. Of course, every cleaning may look different for each patient, but the ultimate goal and certain steps are fairly constant.
For most family dentists, dental cleanings are a way to keep teeth clean and prevent any oral health concerns from developing. The process typically involves documenting any oral health symptoms the patient has, cleaning the teeth and the gum line thoroughly and educating the patient on ways to keep their teeth clean long-term through good at-home oral hygiene.
The first thing the family dentist will do is discuss any outstanding symptoms and conduct an oral health examination, especially if it is an individual's very first dental cleaning. They may also order dental X-rays to get a more accurate idea of the patient’s overall oral health. If there are more severe concerns such as enamel erosion or severe gum disease, then the patient may need additional treatments such as scaling and root planing or a dental filling.
The dental cleaning is not invasive and the patient should experience little to no discomfort. The primary goal is to remove plaque and tartar that develops on the surface of teeth and along the gumline. The family dentist can carefully remove plaque and tartar by hand with safe and effective dental equipment. A common misconception is that one does not need a dental cleaning if they brush regularly. However, a dental cleaning can access areas of the teeth that are hard to reach while brushing and can remove tartar (hardened plaque) that can develop over time regardless of good oral hygiene.
Teeth polishing seeks to make teeth more smooth, look better and prevent plaque buildup. Teeth polishing can also be done carefully by hand with small, minimally invasive dental equipment. This step occurs in a dental cleaning after the plaque and tartar are removed and the mouth is rinsed. Patients who are worried about the polishing process can discuss ways to reduce anxiety during treatment with a family dentist. They may suggest things such as wearing headphones to distract themselves and ensure they do not hear the dental tools.
Although a dental cleaning is a great way to keep teeth and gums clean, it is not a substitute for good oral care at home. A consistent brushing routine, mouthwash and floss are all necessary components of at-home care. A family dentist may also provide educational information to patients following their first dental cleaning to prevent future oral health concerns from developing.
Reach out today to learn more about dental cleanings. Additionally, an appointment can be scheduled with the family dentist to get started!
Request an appointment here: https://www.stgeorgedentalcare.com or call St. George Dental Care at (435) 628-9099 for an appointment in our St George office.
Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Read our Yelp reviews.
Navigating healthcare costs can often feel confusing, especially when trying to decipher your benefit packet. Understanding your dental insurance St George Utah options is crucial to avoiding unexpected out-of-pocket expenses. By learning the details of your policy before your appointment, you can confidently plan your care and keep your smile healthy.At St. George Dental Care,…
Sudden dental pain or an unexpected mouth injury can disrupt your entire life in an instant. When you are dealing with throbbing discomfort or a broken tooth, the urgency you feel is completely valid. Finding immediate, reliable care is your top priority to get back to feeling like yourself.At St. George Dental Care, we understand…
Sudden dental pain is incredibly stressful, and worrying about the final bill only adds to that anxiety. Many patients delay seeking urgent help because they fear unexpected expenses and confusing invoices. Understanding the average emergency dentist cost St George UT can help you feel more in control of your situation and confident in your healthcare…
With so many options in St. George, Utah, choosing a new dentist can feel overwhelming. But finding the right provider is crucial for your long-term health, comfort, and peace of mind. Becoming a new patient should be a smooth transition, not a source of stress.If you are wondering exactly how to choose a dentist St…
Navigating healthcare costs can often feel confusing, especially when trying to decipher your benefit packet.…
Sudden dental pain or an unexpected mouth injury can disrupt your entire life in an…
Sudden dental pain is incredibly stressful, and worrying about the final bill only adds to…
With so many options in St. George, Utah, choosing a new dentist can feel overwhelming.…
Choosing a new dental provider can feel overwhelming, especially when you want the very best…
Navigating healthcare expenses can often feel like learning a foreign language. Many patients are confused…