Smile Brighter with Dental Cleanings in Staten Island, NY
At our Staten Island dental office, we believe that preventive dental care is the cornerstone of good oral health. One of the most important aspects of preventive care is regular dental cleanings. Our Staten Island preventive dentists, and our team of experienced dental professionals understand that going to the dentist can be an anxiety-provoking experience for many people, which is why we strive to provide these vital cleanings in a comfortable and stress-free atmosphere for our patients.
What Is A Dental Cleaning?
A dental cleaning is a procedure performed by a dental hygienist to remove plaque, tartar, and other debris from the teeth and gums. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that accumulates on the teeth and can lead to cavities and gum disease if not removed regularly. Tartar is a hardened form of plaque that can only be removed by a dental professional.
The Importance of Preventive Dental Care
Preventive dental care, such as regular dental cleanings, is essential to maintaining good oral health. By removing plaque and tartar, dental cleanings help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental problems. In addition, regular dental cleanings can help our dentists detect dental issues early before they become more severe and costly to treat.
At our dental practice in Staten Island, NY, we recommend that patients schedule dental cleanings every six months to keep their teeth and gums healthy. However, some patients may require more frequent cleanings, depending on their individual needs.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
During your dental cleaning appointment at our Staten dental practice, our dental hygienist will perform a thorough cleaning of your teeth and gums. The cleaning will typically include the following steps:
Examination– Before the cleaning begins, our hygienist will examine your teeth and gums to check for any signs of dental problems, such as cavities or gum disease.
Scaling– Our hygienist will use a scaler to remove any plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums. This process may involve some scraping and may cause mild discomfort, but it should not be painful.
Polishing– After the scaling is complete, our hygienist will polish your teeth using a special paste and a high-powered brush. This will help remove any remaining stains and leave your teeth feeling smooth and clean.
Flossing– Our hygienist will then floss your teeth to remove any remaining debris and to ensure that all surfaces are clean.
Fluoride treatment– Finally, our hygienist may apply a fluoride treatment to your teeth to help strengthen the enamel and protect against cavities.
The entire cleaning process typically takes 30-60 minutes, depending on the level of cleaning required.
Oral Cancer Screenings
In addition to cleaning your teeth and gums, our dental hygienist will also perform an oral cancer screening during your dental cleaning appointment. This screening involves a visual examination of your mouth, lips, and throat to check for any signs of cancer or pre-cancerous lesions.
Oral cancer is a serious and potentially deadly disease, but early detection can greatly improve the chances of successful treatment. That’s why regular oral cancer screenings are an important part of preventive dental care.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I schedule dental cleanings?
We recommend that patients schedule dental cleanings every six months to maintain good oral health. However, some patients may require more frequent cleanings, depending on their individual needs.
Will my dental cleaning be painful?
The dental cleaning process may involve some scraping and polishing, which may cause mild discomfort. However, it should not be painful. If you experience any discomfort during your cleaning, please let our dental hygienist know immediately.
Is it normal to experience bleeding during a dental cleaning?
Some patients may experience some bleeding during a dental cleaning, particularly if they have gum disease or other dental issues. However, excessive bleeding may be a sign of a more serious problem, and our dental hygienist will address any concerns or issues during the cleaning.
What if I haven't been to the dentist in a long time?
If you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, don’t worry! Dental anxiety is a common concern for many patients, and we strive to create a comfortable and welcoming environment for all our patients. We will work with you to develop a treatment plan that meets your individual needs and addresses any dental issues you may have.
Maintain Your Oral Health with Dental Cleanings in Staten Island, NY
Don’t let dental problems sneak up on you! Schedule your next dental cleaning appointment at our dental practice in Staten Island, NY today by calling (718) 948-5111 or request an appointment online. Our team of preventive dental professionals is here to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums with comprehensive preventive care, including regular dental cleanings. Don’t wait until it’s too late – take action now to protect your oral health and schedule your appointment today!