woman smiling as she undergoes teeth cleaningTeeth cleaning is an essential aspect of oral hygiene. Regular teeth cleaning can help prevent gum disease, tooth decay, bad breath, and other oral health issues. Healthcare professionals recommend that you schedule a preventive appointment with your dentist or dental hygienist for teeth cleaning every six months.

Has it been longer than six months since your last dental visit? Come see the team at Metropolitan Dental Care in Denver, CO. We offer gentle, in-depth prophylaxis to keep your smile clean, healthy, and bright. Get started today by calling (303) 534-2626.

Dental cleaning involves the use of specialized tools to remove accumulated plaque and tartar from the teeth and around the gumline. Typically, a dental hygienist conducts the cleanings, requiring roughly 30 to 60 minutes to clean all teeth. In this blog, we tell you why teeth cleaning is so important and how you can properly prepare for your next appointment

Why is teeth cleaning important?

A dental cleaning is essential to maintaining optimal oral health. Even if you brush your teeth twice a day, you may not be able to remove all the plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth

Plaque is a thin layer of bacteria that forms on the surface of teeth. If left to accumulate, it can cause gum disease and tooth decay. When plaque is not removed, it creates a hard, calcified deposit on the teeth known as tartar. Unfortunately, tartar can only be removed by a dentist or dental hygienist, no matter your brushing or flossing habits.

Regular teeth cleaning can help prevent cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. It can also improve your overall health. Gum disease has been linked to a variety of health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Regular teeth cleaning can help prevent gum disease and reduce the risk of systemic health problems.

How to Prepare for A Dental Cleaning

Preparing for a dental cleaning is easy. Here are a few ways that we recommend preparing for your upcoming dental visit:

Schedule an Appointment

Book an appointment with your dentist or dental hygienist for teeth cleaning around your schedule. Be sure to request time off from work, and budget the drive to and from the dental office into your routine. 

Brush and Floss

Of course, we should be brushing and flossing every day. But, it’s especially important to brush and floss before a dental cleaning. We recommend flossing with traditional string floss, interdental brushes, or water flossers. We also suggest using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Avoid Eating

After brushing and flossing, it is best to avoid eating until after your teeth have been cleaned. Food debris on the teeth can slow down the cleaning process and add unexpected time to your visit.

Discuss Your Medical History

Inform your dentist or dental hygienist about any medical conditions you may have or medications you are taking. This information can help them provide you with the best care for your needs.

Relax!

Many people are nervous about going to the dentist, but teeth cleaning is a simple procedure that is painless for most people. Try to relax and breathe deeply during the procedure!

Gentle Teeth Cleaning in Denver, CO

Dental experts suggest biannual teeth cleanings for optimal oral health. If it’s been longer than six months since your last cleaning, then it’s time to contact Metropolitan Dental Care in Denver, CO. Patients can submit appointment requests online, or they may dial our team directly at (303) 534-2626!