Why are dental cleanings necessary?
Regularly scheduled dental cleanings help prevent tooth loss and lessen the risk of other harmful dental diseases. Professional teeth cleaning removes the buildup of plaque and tartar which, if not removed, can cause gum disease. Gum disease develops as a result of your body’s immune system responding to tartar buildup with inflamed and bleeding gums.
If gum disease increases, so does the damage done to the bone and tissues in your mouth. This damage can eventually become irreversible. Preventive measures through teeth cleaning is the best way to maintain overall dental health and keep beautiful teeth for a lifetime.
How often should I invest in a dental cleaning?
The answer to this question is different for everyone, but the American Dental Association (ADA) typically recommends visiting the dentist for a professional cleaning once every six months. If Dr. Yakobashvili or Dr. Datikashvili detect gum disease or tooth decay during your exam, they might suggest more frequent cleanings to prevent these problems from getting worse.
Your physical health also plays a role. For example, if you’ve been diagnosed with diabetes or high blood pressure, you’re more likely to experience oral health problems. During your initial consultation, your dentist reviews your medical history and tailors an oral treatment plan that aligns with your individual needs and concerns.
My teeth and gums feel fine, do I still need to schedule a dental cleaning?
It’s important to visit the dentist regularly even if your gums and teeth feel fine. Many oral health problems like gingivitis and tooth decay don’t present obvious symptoms in their early stages.
Dr. Yakobashvili and Dr. Datikashvili know how to spot these problems early on and prevent them from getting worse. Additionally, your oral health and physical health are inextricably linked. Visiting the dentist regularly is an important component of living a healthy lifestyle.
In fact, clinical studies suggest that gum disease significantly increases your risk of other, more serious health problems including heart disease, diabetes, and even certain types of cancer.
I have sensitive teeth and gums, is there any way to limit pain during my cleaning?
If you have a low pain tolerance, sensitive teeth and gums, or you suffer from dental anxiety, make sure to share this information with Dr. Yakobashvili, Dr. Datikashvili, or the team at Glad Dental P.C. Depending on your individual needs, the team might administer a local anesthetic to numb your teeth and gums or they might recommend nitrous oxide or “laughing gas” to help you relax.
Dr. Yakobashvili, Dr. Datikashvili, and all of the dental hygienists on-staff have years of experience performing dental cleanings both safely and effectively. The team also uses cutting-edge tools, including ultrasonic scalers and polishers designed for patient comfort.
What happens during dental cleanings?
The focus of dental cleanings is maintaining your best dental hygiene and oral health care. Dental cleanings work to prevent impending tooth or gum disease before it takes hold of your teeth. Some of the things that will be done during a cleaning at Glad Dental P.C. include:
- Removing plaque: Plaque is a sticky substance that can lead to deposits of tartar and cavities.
- Removing tartar: Tartar is hardened plaque that develops on the tooth over time.
- Removing stains: Dental stains and discoloration are a common benefit of tooth cleaning.
Is fluoride treatment included in a teeth cleaning?
Yes. The final step of a professional teeth cleaning involves Dr. Yakobashvili, Dr. Datikashvili, or your dental hygienist applying a fluoride treatment. Fluoride is a mineral that’s naturally found in your bones, teeth, and throughout nature. Clinical studies also show that fluoride can strengthen and fortify your tooth enamel.
During fluoride treatment, your Glad Dental P.C. provider applies a sticky paste or foamy gel to a mouthguard-like tray. After applying the solution, your dentist puts the tray in your mouth and you’re asked to bite down. You leave the tray in your mouth for one minute. This process protects your teeth from decay for up to six months.
What other services does Dr. Yakobashvili perform during a dental cleaning?
During the teeth cleaning there is a possibility that Dr. Yakobashvili may perform other services at the same time. This can include the use of digital X-rays. These X-rays are used to make a diagnosis of dental problems. They provide early detection by projecting clear images to determine if there are other dental concerns such as hidden dental cysts, solid growths, or tumors. If you’re in need of a dental cleaning, call Glad Dental P.C. or go online to schedule your next appointment with Dr. Yakobashvili today!
