Oral examinations provide a comprehensive assessment of your mouth, neck, and head. During these evaluations, we meticulously inspect for cavities, gum and bone recession, as well as any other irregularities that may be present. It is advisable to schedule an oral exam at least biannually. In conjunction with the examination, we will conduct a thorough teeth cleaning Louisville KY to eliminate accumulated tartar and plaque, followed by a polishing of your teeth to ensure you depart with a radiant and pristine smile.
Teeth cleaning Louisville KY plays a crucial role in maintaining oral hygiene, as it involves the removal of bacteria, plaque, and tartar that can accumulate on the surfaces of your teeth. This procedure is generally carried out by a dental hygienist, who initiates the process with a physical examination of your mouth. Regular cleanings are vital in preventing cavities and other dental complications, thereby promoting overall oral health.
1. A physical exam
Typically, dental hygienists are responsible for performing teeth cleanings. Before commencing the cleaning procedure, they conduct a thorough examination of your mouth. Utilizing a small mirror, the hygienist inspects your teeth and gums for any indications of gingivitis or other potential issues. Should any significant concerns arise during this assessment, the dental hygienist may consult with the dentist to determine the appropriate course of action before proceeding with the cleaning.
2. Removing plaque and tartar
Utilizing a small mirror for guidance, the dental hygienist employs a scaler to eliminate plaque and tartar that accumulate along the gum line and between the teeth. The sound of scraping may be audible during this process, which is entirely normal. It is important to note that the presence of more tartar will necessitate additional time spent on specific areas to ensure thorough cleaning.
Regular brushing and flossing are essential practices that prevent plaque from accumulating and subsequently hardening into tartar. Once tartar has formed, its removal can only be performed by a dental professional. Therefore, if this aspect of dental cleaning is particularly unpleasant for you, it serves as a reminder to enhance your oral hygiene routine by brushing and flossing more diligently.
3. Gritty toothpaste cleaning
After the removal of tartar, the hygienist will proceed to brush your teeth using a high-powered electric toothbrush, which produces a grinding sound. Although this noise may seem intimidating, it effectively provides a deep clean and eliminates any residual tartar that the scaler may have missed. The toothpaste used during this professional cleaning resembles standard toothpaste in scent and flavor, with the option to select from various flavors. However, it possesses a gritty texture that aids in the gentle scrubbing of teeth. When performed by a professional, this polishing procedure is considered safe to undertake biannually, but it is advisable to avoid excessive force during at-home dental care to prevent enamel erosion.
4. Expert flossing
Regardless of your home flossing habits, an expert flossing session remains unparalleled. A dental hygienist possesses the ability to thoroughly teeth cleaning Louisville KY between your teeth and identify any areas that may be prone to gum bleeding. While it may appear unnecessary if you regularly floss at home, a professional cleaning also effectively eliminates any residual plaque or toothpaste that may linger from previous stages of the dental cleaning process.
