When you arrive at our office here at Dental Care of Plano, you will typically be met by a dentist/dental hygienist who will perform thorough teeth cleaning. This is a key part of regular dental exams because a professional teeth cleaning can remove built-up plaque that regular brushing and flossing dont always tackle. There are two main reasons why teeth cleaning by a pro is so important:
- Plaque builds up on the teeth can cause more serious health issues, and not just in the mouth. In addition to things like gum disease, plaque builds up on teeth can also be linked to strokes and heart disease.
- Regular professional cleanings help prevent the loss of teeth.
What Happens in the Appointment?
At most annual check-ups, as well as at many other types of appointments, the teeth cleaning happens first. The hygienist will help you get comfortable in an exam room, and will then begin cleaning your teeth using professional tools. He or she will floss and brush the teeth and may perform a polish as well depending on the other treatments scheduled. Typically, they will also perform a pocket test or pocket reading, which means that a small tool will be used to measure where the gum and tooth meet. This helps determine the health of your gums.
While you are having this procedure done, feel free to ask your dentist/hygienist to explain what they are doing. This can help you understand how to better take care of your teeth and gums at home. During these teeth cleaning, your hygienist may ask you some basic questions, such as how often you brush and floss, in order to understand your oral health better.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
To help protect your health and keep all your teeth in a place where they belong, professional teeth cleaning is an excellent place to start. Contact our office at Dental Care of Plano today for an appointment.