Gum health is vital for the health and well-being of your smile. Twice a year, visits to your dentist for a teeth cleaning can help keep your teeth and gums healthy. Periodontist Dr. David Weinstock provides dental cleanings and fluoride treatments as part of our preventative oral health care routine. Teeth cleanings are one of Dr. Weinstock’s most important general dental services to all patients.
Dental Cleaning in Philadelphia, PA
Teeth cleanings help remove plaque and tartar buildup that daily brushing and flossing can not. They use state-of-the-art tools to clean all surfaces and crevices of your teeth and soft tissues. This will lower your chance of decay, gum disease, and tooth loss. Dental cleanings can also help keep your teeth whiter and your breath fresher.
What is plaque and tartar?
Plaque is a sticky film that builds up on your teeth from food. It contains bacteria, and you have to remove it every day because of this. Practicing good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily will remove the plaque from your mouth. The bacteria found in plaque cause gum disease and tooth decay.
Tartar is a hard deposit that forms on your teeth when you don’t remove plaque regularly. If you have tartar buildup, your dentist must remove it during a dental cleaning. If left untreated, this buildup will lead to tooth decay.
What to Expect at Your Dental Cleaning in Philadelphia, PA
At each dentist appointment, a hygienist screens for dental problems and cleans your teeth. They also use a tiny mirror to check your teeth and gums, looking for signs of decay and gum disease. If any issues are present, they note them to share with Dr. Weinstock.
Next, we use a small mirror and a special tool to carefully clean plaque and tartar from between your teeth and at the gumline. They will scale each tooth to ensure they remove all tartar. The more plaque and tartar in your mouth, the longer and more uncomfortable this part may be.
The hygienist will polish your teeth with a gritty toothpaste using a handheld electric brush. After this, you have a fresh, clean smile. More importantly, you will be plaque— and tartar-free, with a lower risk of developing gum disease or tooth decay.
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Fluoride Applications
Fluoride is a natural mineral that strengthens teeth and prevents cavities. You can get it in two ways. Swallow it as your teeth are growing, or apply it directly to the surface of the teeth.
The best cavity protection starts early. When children get fluoride regularly (from about 6 months old), it builds strong teeth from the inside out. This protection lasts longer than fluoride applied to the surface of teeth.
You can get it from fluoridated water, dietary supplements, and some foods and drinks. Topical fluorides strengthen the teeth already present in the mouth. The surface of the teeth absorbs it, protecting them from tooth decay.
Topical fluorides include toothpaste, mouth rinses, and professionally applied fluoride gels, foams, and rinses.
Researchers have observed fluoride’s decay-preventive effects in three specific ways:
- Fluoride makes tooth enamel harder and more resistant to the acid that causes tooth decay.
- It reduces the ability of dental plaque organisms to produce acid.
- Fluoride promotes the repair of tooth enamel in the early stages of tooth decay.
Dental Cleanings FAQs
A dental cleaning is a simple procedure that we recommend twice a year. While simple, it is vital to oral health and will contribute to overall well-being. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact our dental office during regular office hours.
Do adult teeth benefit from fluoride treatments?
Fluoride benefits people of all ages in two ways. For adults, fluoride can stop a cavity when it first starts. It makes your tooth enamel stronger and helps your saliva constantly repair early damage.
Is fluoride in tap water safe to drink?
Since the 1930s, hundreds of studies have shown that fluoride in water has no harmful effects. Adding fluoride to public water is a safe and effective public health practice. Leading health organizations, including the American Dental Association and the World Health Organization, strongly support it.
Does bottled water or well water provide fluoride protection against decay?
Most water bottles on the market do not contain a good level (0.7-1.2 ppm) of fluoride. Additionally, reverse osmosis home treatment systems remove fluoride from the water supply.
Consumers of well water, or those who use home water treatment systems, should have their water tested each year to determine the fluoride level. Testing is available through local and state public health departments. Private labs may also offer testing for fluoride levels in the water.
What types of fluoride products are available?
Fluoride supplements are only available by prescription. They are available in two forms. There are drops for infants aged six months and up and chewable tablets for children and adolescents.
Many topical fluoride rinses, gels, pastes, and foams are available either as office treatments or by prescription. Dr. Weinstock may suggest a prescription fluoride toothpaste. Many store-bought products are useful as well. Your dentist or hygienist will be happy to discuss which of these products may benefit you.
Are dental cleanings painful?
Dental cleanings are not typically painful. During the procedure, your dental hygienist will use a special tool to remove plaque and tartar and polish your teeth. You may, however, experience some minor discomfort or sensitivity, but it is generally manageable.
We ensure our patients are comfortable during every appointment, even dental cleaning. We can use local anesthesia for particularly sensitive areas or sedation dentistry if you suffer from dental anxiety.
Can dental cleanings prevent bad breath?
Yes, dental cleanings can help you prevent bad breath (halitosis). A teeth cleaning will remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria from your teeth and gums, the number one underlying cause of bad breath. Additionally, we can identify and address oral health issues that may be contributing to your bad breath. Twice a year, dental cleanings will ensure you have fresh breath and proper oral health.
Does insurance cover dental cleanings?
Yes, dental insurance plans typically cover dental cleanings. Many insurance policies fully or partially cover preventive services, which include dental cleanings. This will include two annual teeth cleanings.
However, coverage details vary per patient. We encourage each patient to check their specific insurance plan or consult the insurance provider. This helps them understand the extent of their coverage for dental cleanings.
Can dental cleanings detect gum disease?
Yes, dental cleanings can detect gum disease. During cleanings, your dental hygienist will assess your gum health. They look for signs such as bleeding gums, swollen gums, or deep pockets.
When we detect the early stage of gum disease (gingivitis), we can intervene promptly and offer conservative treatment. If you are in the advanced stage of gum disease (periodontitis), we can initiate a more comprehensive treatment plan.
Can I eat or drink before a dental cleaning appointment?
Yes, you can generally eat or drink before a dental cleaning appointment. For the best cleaning, please avoid heavy meals and staining drinks like coffee or tea beforehand. Also, be sure to brush your teeth before your appointment.