(616) 676-9177
(616) 676-9177

What to Expect at Your Next Teeth Cleaning

Teeth Cleanings Ada MI DentistsNot many would rank a professional teeth cleaning as number one in terms of “most exciting” things to do. We get it, it’s not how most people want to spend an hour of their time. However, our Ada, MI, dentists still encourage you to schedule a cleaning bi-annually.

Here’s what happens during a teeth cleaning and why these checkup visits are so important for your long-term oral health.

The Recommended Frequency

Most dentists, including ours, agree that you should visit the office for a professional teeth cleaning every 6 months, twice a year. This accepted standard allows our dentists and dental hygienists to keep tabs on the health of your teeth and gums.

Now, if you have a history of gum disease or a recent dental issue was found at your last appointment, you may need to see our dentists more frequently. Every patient is different and our staff will be sure to advise you on your teeth cleaning timeline should you deviate from the standard.

Regularly brushing and flossing your teeth on your own is beneficial but does not effectively remove all plaque, tartar, and bacteria buildup. If you are to prevent tooth decay and cavity formation, specialized dental tools, a trained hygienist, and regular cleanings are all required.

Multiple Stages of a Teeth Cleaning

A teeth cleaning can be broken down into 4 main stages. Each component of the cleaning process is painless and relatively quick. The tools used will make various sounds but there is nothing to worry about as you are in good hands.

A teeth cleaning consists of:
  1. An Oral Examination
  2. Removal of Plaque and Tartar
  3. Teeth Polishing
  4. Flossing

First Stage

Every teeth cleaning will begin with an oral examination of your entire mouth. Our hygienists will visually check your teeth and gums for signs of gingivitis or other potential concerns. During this stage, an oral cancer screening for suspicious lumps or bumps may also occur.

Second Stage

Next, our hygienists will use a small tool called a scaler to carefully remove plaque and hardened tartar from around the gum line and in between your teeth. Scraping is normal while this is being done and the more tartar that exists, the more scraping you’ll hear.

Third Stage

With all tartar gone, our hygienists will move onto the third cleaning stage: polishing. A high-powered electric brush coated in gritty toothpaste is used to deep clean and remove any left behind tartar. The gritty consistency helps to gently scrub your teeth and is safe when used by a professional.

Fourth Stage

The final stage of a teeth cleaning consists of a flossing session. Our hygienists will expertly floss between your teeth and identify potential bleeding spots as they move throughout your mouth. Any plaque or toothpaste left over is removed at this time.

Why Teeth Cleanings Matter

Prevention is our primary mission here at Norman Family Dentistry. We want all of our patients to enjoy healthy teeth and gums for life and regular cleanings directly play into that.

In short, teeth cleanings rid your mouth of cavity causing plaque, prevent costly dental problems from arising, and protect you from tooth loss.

Make an Appointment

Cleanings and check-ins with our dentists in Ada, MI, are more important than you may think. They help to not only remove what can’t be gotten rid of using at-home tools, but they also give our team the opportunity to make sure all is well with your smile. Call Norman Family Dentistry today at (616) 676-9177 to request an appointment.