The Basics of Regular Dental Cleanings, by Dr. Charles Silk, DDS
Top prosthodontist Dr. Charles Silk DDS has been in practice in New York City for nearly 30 years. Dr. Charles Silk DDS routinely provides a range of dental services, including dental implants, whitening, porcelain veneers, and prophylactic dental cleanings.
Dentists recommend routine cleanings every six months to preserve oral health and keep teeth clean and protected. During a cleaning, your dentist removes plaque and tartar from your teeth. The saliva in your mouth bathes the teeth, providing calcium and a number of other nutrients to strengthen and preserve them. On the other hand, unfortunately, saliva can also cause a buildup of calcium deposits. This buildup is known as tartar.
Dentists use a number of specialized tools to clean teeth, including an ultrasonic instrument to knock loose tartar, fine hand tools to remove deposits and smooth the surfaces, and a soft rubber cup instrument to provide a final polish. After the cleaning and polishing process, dentists often apply a fluoride product. Fluoride comes in a wide variety of flavors and formulations, including foam, gel, and liquid. The fluoride solution strengthens the teeth and repairs the places where tartar and plaque have weakened the teeth.
Most people find the cleaning process fairly painless, although it may tickle or cause some slight discomfort. Although it can feel strange to have your teeth thoroughly cleaned, the benefits far outweigh any temporary soreness. Routine dental cleanings prevent oral cancer, gum disease, and tooth decay. They can also detect dental problems before they become difficult or painful to fix, maintain general physical health, and preserve a fresh, white smile.
