Teeth Cleaning

If you are brushing and flossing twice a day without fail, you may wonder why you need to have your teeth cleaned.  It is simply because brushing and flossing are just the basis of a good oral hygiene regimen.  A certain amount of plaque will still accumulate between the teeth and on the gum line, no matter how much you brush your teeth.  It is not a reflection on how well you are brushing either.  It just requires some special tools to remove.

Professional cleaning is recommended every six months by a certified dental hygienist.  Following the cleaning, Dr. Hansen will do a detailed examination to determine if any problems need to be addressed with the teeth or the rest of the mouth.  The patient even gets a goody package to go home with that includes a new toothbrush, some floss, and a sample tube of toothpaste!

The hygienist uses a scaling tool to scrape away plaque along the gums and between the teeth.  The scaling process can take a long time to complete or be a short process.  The patient determines the length of the scaling by how well their brushing regimen has been followed.

The teeth are scrubbed with a special (but usually great flavored) gritty toothpaste and then flossed.  Any remaining particles in the mouth are then rinsed away.

Make an appointment for your next cleaning by calling 707-429-2633.