63119 Performs Routine Dental Cleanings
Maintaining good oral hygiene goes beyond regular brushing and flossing. Routine dental cleanings are essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy, preventing cavities, and detecting early signs of dental problems. At Dentistry at Watson & Elm, Dr. Scanlon, your experienced Webster Groves, MO dentist, emphasizes the importance of professional cleanings as part of your ongoing dental care. Our goal is to ensure that every patient maintains a healthy, beautiful smile while minimizing discomfort and avoiding future complications.
Why Dental Cleanings Are Important
Even with careful brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can accumulate in areas that are difficult to reach, such as between teeth and along the gum line. Mineralized plaque, also known as tartar, cannot be removed with regular brushing. A professional cleaning by our trained hygienist is the most effective way to remove these deposits. Regular cleanings, typically recommended every six months, help prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath while keeping your smile looking its best.
What to Expect During a Dental Cleaning
A routine dental cleaning at Dentistry at Watson & Elm generally lasts between 30 minutes and an hour. The cleaning is performed by our hygienist. Our Webster Groves MO dentist may examine your teeth and gums at the end of the appointment to ensure your oral health is on track. Most patients find that professional cleanings are painless and comfortable.
Dental cleanings include two essential steps:
1. Scaling the Teeth
The first step in a dental cleaning is scaling, which removes plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces. This process can be performed using hand instruments or electric scalers depending on the hygienist’s preference. In addition to cleaning the visible surfaces of your teeth, our hygienist will also clean the pockets of the gums to remove any buildup that can lead to gum disease. This thorough cleaning helps maintain healthy gums and prevents inflammation or infection.
2. Polishing the Teeth
The second step is polishing, which removes any remaining plaque and buffs the teeth to a smooth, clean finish. Polishers come with various sized heads, allowing our hygienist to reach all areas of the mouth, including tight spaces and hard-to-reach surfaces. Polishing not only enhances the appearance of your teeth but also helps reduce the likelihood of future plaque buildup.
Additional Benefits of Professional Cleanings
Professional dental cleanings offer more than just a brighter smile. They are an opportunity for early detection of potential dental issues such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. Regular visits to Dentistry at Watson & Elm allow Dr. Scanlon to monitor changes in your oral health, provide personalized guidance on home care, and ensure that your teeth and gums remain strong and healthy.
Schedule Your Cleaning
If you have not had a dental cleaning in the last six months, now is the perfect time to schedule one. Call Dentistry at Watson & Elm at (314) 962-2747 to book an appointment with Dr. Scanlon, our Webster Groves, MO dentist. Routine dental cleanings are a simple but essential step toward maintaining long-term oral health and a confident smile.
