What it is
A professional cleaning, clinically called a prophylaxis, removes plaque and calculus from the teeth, including the areas a toothbrush does not reach. Calculus, also called tartar, is plaque that has hardened, and it cannot be brushed off once it forms. The teeth are then polished.
The examination is a separate step. The dentist evaluates the teeth, the gums, and the soft tissues of the mouth, and reviews the findings with you. The two normally take place in the same visit.
When you might need it
Many dentists recommend a checkup about every six months, although the appropriate interval depends on the individual mouth. A patient with gum disease or extensive dental work may need to be seen more often, and Dr. Itoafa will advise you on the schedule that fits. The prevention of dental decay consists of good oral hygiene and regular professional cleanings.
A problem should not wait for a scheduled visit. Call about bleeding gums, pain on biting, a chipped tooth, a sore that does not heal, or a bad taste that persists.
A long interval since the last visit is not a reason to delay. The first appointment may consist mostly of an examination, because some mouths need more than a routine cleaning, and the dentist will explain what that involves.
What happens at each visit
A visit begins with a review of your health, the medicines you take, and anything that has been bothering you. The dentist then examines the teeth for decay, cracks, and wear, and checks existing fillings and crowns. The gums are assessed for swelling and bleeding, and the tongue, cheeks, and floor of the mouth are inspected for sores, lumps, or changes in color.
X-rays are taken when they are indicated. They show what the eye cannot, such as decay between the teeth and changes in the bone beneath the gums, and how often you need them depends on your history. For the cleaning, plaque and calculus are removed with scaling instruments, including along the gumline, and the teeth are polished.
Afterward the dentist reviews what was found and what, if anything, needs treatment, and you may ask questions before agreeing to anything. To prepare, brush and floss as usual, bring a list of your medicines, note any tooth that is sensitive or sore, and mention any recent X-rays taken at another office.
Materials and what to expect afterward
A cleaning uses scaling instruments, polishing paste, and floss. Afterward the teeth feel smooth. The gums may be slightly tender, and they may bleed lightly if they were inflamed. The teeth can be sensitive to cold for a short time.
A cleaning does not replace daily brushing and flossing, and it is not treatment for gum disease. Continue to brush twice a day and floss daily, and call the office if bleeding or soreness continues. When the examination finds a cavity or a worn tooth, the dentist presents the options, which can include a filling or a crown. Some areas can safely be monitored and rechecked at the next visit.
Why Dutch Creek Dental
Dr. Mike Itoafa has owned Dutch Creek Dental since 2018, and the practice has been on West Coal Mine Avenue for more than 30 years. Checkups are done in this office. When an examination finds something that needs a specialist, Dr. Itoafa refers you to one he trusts.
Common questions
How often should I have a checkup and cleaning?
Many patients are advised to return about every six months. Some need visits more often, such as patients with gum disease. Dr. Itoafa will set a schedule based on what he finds in your mouth.
Does a cleaning hurt?
It can be uncomfortable when the teeth are sensitive or the gums are swollen. Most people feel pressure and scraping. Tell the dentist if something hurts, and ask for a pause if you need one.
Why do my gums bleed after a cleaning?
Bleeding usually indicates gums that are inflamed by plaque along the gumline. It often eases as the area is cleaned and you keep up daily flossing. If it continues, ask about gum disease.
Do I need X-rays at every visit?
Not necessarily. How often you need them depends on your history and how prone you are to cavities. The dentist will explain the reason whenever X-rays are recommended.
What if it has been years since I saw a dentist?
Call the office and ask for a visit. The first appointment is mostly an examination, so that the dentist can see what is going on. If there is heavy calculus or there are signs of gum disease, a routine cleaning may not be enough, and you will be told what is.