The Dental Cleaning Process in Petoskey, MI
Quick & Easy Dental Cleanings for Pristine Oral Health
Nobody wants to face troublesome tooth issues or an unattractive smile. By maintaining excellent oral hygiene and regular dental cleanings, you can avoid invasive procedures and the need to hide your smile out of embarrassment.
Discover more about the dental cleaning process below, so you’re well-prepared when you visit our Petoskey, MI dentist Dr. Klym for your next appointment. Call (231) 347-2188 to learn more.
How a Dental Cleaning Works
Dental Exam
Before starting your dental cleaning, a dental hygienist or dentist will conduct a dental exam to check for any signs of issues such as cavities or gum disease. These exams are vital for assessing your oral health and determining if you’ll require any additional treatments. They are generally quick and painless.
At least once a year, our dental team will also take digital X-rays to identify problems not visible to the naked eye.
Plaque and Tartar Removal
Our dental team will use specialized tools, like a dental scaler, to perform plaque and tartar removal. Plaque is a sticky bacterial film that forms on teeth, potentially leading to cavities and gum disease. Tartar is a hard mineral deposit that forms when plaque isn’t removed and can only be eliminated by a dentist or dental hygienist. You may experience some sensitivity during this process, but it should not be painful.
Teeth Cleaning and Polishing
After removing plaque and tartar, our dentist will clean and polish your teeth using a special toothpaste and brush. This step removes surface stains, leaving your teeth feeling smooth, shiny, and clean.
Flossing
Our dental hygienists will then floss between the teeth to remove any remaining plaque or food particles. Flossing is crucial during dental cleanings as it reaches areas between teeth that a toothbrush cannot.
Fluoride Treatment
Depending on your oral health, Dr. Klym may recommend a fluoride treatment to help protect your teeth from decay. Fluoride is a mineral that can help remineralize teeth and make them more resistant to decay. The fluoride treatment may be applied as a gel, foam, or varnish brushed onto the teeth and left to sit for a few minutes before being rinsed off.
Post-Dental Cleaning Care
After a dental cleaning, you might experience some sensitivity, especially if it was a deep cleaning. We recommend the following post-appointment care:
- Continue regular brushing and flossing.
- Avoid foods or beverages that are extremely hot, cold, sweet, or acidic if sensitivity is present.
- Use a saltwater solution or anti-sensitivity mouthwash to alleviate discomfort.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings as recommended by our dentist, typically every six months.
