If you’re like most people, you probably use a toothbrush and floss regularly to keep your teeth clean. However, this doesn’t remove the plaque and tartar that build up on your teeth over time.
Getting regular Dentist Robina can help you avoid problems that can lead to serious oral health issues, such as gum disease. Read on to learn about the different types of dental cleanings and what each entails.
Removal of Plaque and Tartar
When plaque and tartar are left to build up on your teeth, they can cause serious problems for your oral health. The bacteria in plaque produce acids that erode the enamel on your teeth and contribute to gum disease.
Plaque is a thin, sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth when you eat or drink something sugary. It can also build up if you don’t brush or floss your teeth properly after meals.
Tartar is a thicker mineral buildup that develops on your teeth or around your gum line if plaque isn’t removed. It looks like a yellow or brown film and can change the colour of your teeth when it builds up.
To help prevent tartar from forming, limit sugary snacks and drinks. It’s also important to keep up with your dental hygiene routine by visiting the dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
Flossing
Flossing is the process of removing food and bacteria that are stuck between teeth. This helps prevent cavities and gum disease by preventing plaque from building up around the tooth.
Typically, floss consists of a cord of thin filaments that you insert and move up and down between the sides of your teeth. It is also used as a means to remove debris that a toothbrush can’t reach.
Dental floss is the best way to clean between teeth as it can remove more plaque than a toothbrush. It is recommended to floss every day, especially after meals, to prevent bad breath and gum disease.
Flossing should be done gently, not roughly, to avoid damage to your teeth and gums. This is because flossing too roughly can cause gingival clefts, which could result in tooth loss and other dental health problems.
Polishing
Polishing is a cosmetic procedure in dentistry performed to enhance the aesthetic appearance of teeth. It removes superficial stains, and it can also increase the luster of tooth enamel.
Stains are caused by a variety of factors, including certain foods and beverages (e.g., coffee, tea, wine), a buildup of plaque, and harmful oral habits. The dentist can remove these stains in two ways: with dental polishing and with fluoride therapy.
During the polishing process, the dentist will use an abrasive compound to smooth the tooth surface. This process can be done with a manual or engine-driven device, which is called a porte polisher.
The abrasive agent used in the polishing procedure can change the rate at which a surface is polished. Dry agents, such as prophy paste, will produce more abrasion than slurry-based abrasives. Using a high speed and applying the abrasive agent at a higher pressure can also have an effect on the abrasion rate.
Fluoride Treatment
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that strengthens teeth and shields them against tooth decay. It can be found in toothpaste and mouth rinses, but it is also applied to your teeth by your dentist during routine dental checkups.
It works by replenishing minerals that are eroded from your teeth by acidic foods and bacterial buildup. It can even reverse early tooth decay.
The treatment is typically administered after a cleaning and exam and involves applying a thin varnish over your teeth. This varnish contains a much higher concentration of fluoride than you find in toothpastes or mouth rinses.
You should not eat or drink anything for about 30 minutes after your treatment so that the fluoride can be absorbed into your teeth. After that time, you can eat and drink as usual.
However, it is important to note that hot and cold drinks can stain your teeth if you consume them too soon after your treatment. Avoid dark coffee, tea, and sodas until the fluoride has had a chance to properly adhere to your teeth.