All About Dental Cleanings at Turner Family Dental
Hi, I'm Dr. Turner with Turner Family Dental. I'm here to talk to you about dental cleanings.
What are the different types of dental cleanings?
There are several different types of dental cleanings.
- There's a basic dental cleaning that you would get if you had no periodontal disease, gingivitis, or anything like that.
- We also offer a gingivitis treatment, which is for more advanced bleeding gums and heavy buildup around the teeth.
- Lastly, we offer a deep cleaning, typically required for our patients who have some level of bone loss and severe inflammation. In those situations, those patients typically have periodontal disease.
Why are dental cleanings important?
Dental cleanings are very important as they're the foundation of everything we do in dentistry. They are essential for maintaining healthy gums. Dental cleanings are recommended once every six months in most cases. However, some patients who have more advanced inflammation and bone loss are seen more frequently, typically every 3 to 4 months.
Are dental cleanings painful?
Dental cleanings are typically not painful in the absence of any gum disease. Depending on the amount of buildup, they should take anywhere between 30 to 45 minutes.
What happens during a dental cleaning?
During a dental cleaning, we ensure the removal of any plaque that has built up on teeth and any tartar you may notice around the gum line and, in some cases, above the gum line. We also make sure to polish the teeth, so they're very smooth once you leave the office. The dental hygienist will remove as much tartar as possible.
There are cases where we need to numb the patient and do more extensive work to remove all of the tartar. But during a basic cleaning, yes, a dental hygienist can remove all of the tartar.
Do dental cleanings damage the teeth?
Dental cleanings do not typically damage the teeth. However, if there is something wrong with the tooth itself, such as weak enamel or larger cavities that haven't been addressed, you may notice a slight change in tooth structure after the cleaning.
Do teeth become sensitive after a cleaning?
After a dental cleaning, the teeth can become a little sensitive because we've manipulated the tissue to remove all of the tartar. If you're brushing and flossing regularly, this sensitivity typically resolves in the next day or two.
How can I schedule a dental cleaning?
You can schedule a dental cleaning by calling our office. Our office phone number (469) 757-2553, or schedule below! Our staff would love to talk with you.