Dental Cleaning

Dentist Inglewood

New Image Dental
1608 Centinela Ave, Ste 7, Inglewood, CA 90302
(310)216-9600
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What is a full dental cleaning?

Regular dental cleanings are an essential part of maintaining proper oral health. The procedure involves removing harmful bacteria, plaque, and tartar buildup from the surfaces of your teeth. Dentists or dental hygienists will perform the cleaning and may also recommend additional preventive treatments such as dental sealants and fluoride treatments.

If you have anxiety or are afraid of the dentist, it is important to voice any concerns to your dentist at New Image Dental beforehand as there are options such as sedation dentistry that can help you feel more comfortable during your visit.

Types of dental cleanings

Different types of dental cleanings are offered in our dental practice in Inglewood based on the specific needs of the patient. However, the overall goal is to remove harmful bacteria and lower the risk of dental issues.
The types of dental cleanings include:

• Prophylaxis, which is a routine preventive cleaning for those with healthy teeth and gums. It is the most common type of dental cleaning.
• Gross debridement, which is recommended for those who haven’t been to the dentist in over a year or have significant plaque buildup. This is similar to prophylaxis but may take longer as its main purpose is to identify any issues that were not initially diagnosed.
• Scaling and root planing, also known as deep dental cleaning, reaches below the gum line to remove bacteria and tartar around the teeth roots. This procedure is reserved for those with mild to moderate gum disease and is performed with local anesthesia to numb the gums.

How often should you get a dental cleaning?

The recommended frequency of dental cleanings varies depending on an individual’s oral health needs. The American Dental Association (ADA) suggests scheduling regular teeth cleanings as recommended by your dentist. While for many people this is typically every six months, it may vary for some individuals depending on their specific oral health situation.

What is involved in a dental cleaning?

Some common treatments performed during a dental cleaning include:

• Scaling, in which plaque and tartar are removed from the teeth surfaces using hand instruments called scalers or an ultrasonic scaler that sprays a jet of water.
• Polishing, in which a soft rubber cup and special paste or pumice is used to remove biofilm from the teeth surfaces and reduce plaque buildup without damaging any enamel.
• Preventive treatments such as dental sealants and fluoride treatments, may be recommended depending on the individual’s oral health needs. This may include dental sealants or fluoride treatments. Dental sealants can help protect molars or premolars from harmful, cavity-causing bacteria. Fluoride treatments reduce the risk of cavities and strengthen the enamel of teeth.
• Dental X-rays are an important diagnostic tool for identifying dental conditions. The frequency of X-rays can vary depending on an individual’s oral health needs. Typically, most people need new dental X-rays every 6 to 36 months, but those with dental issues that require regular monitoring may need them more frequently. Routine X-rays are crucial in the diagnosis and treatment of dental conditions.

If any issues such as cavities or gum disease are identified during a dental cleaning, your dentist or hygienist will thoroughly discuss the treatment options with you.

How long does a dental cleaning take?

The duration of a dental cleaning can vary depending on the type of cleaning performed. Routine dental cleanings usually take between 30 minutes and an hour, while additional treatments such as scaling, or root planing may require more time.

What are the advantages of regular dental cleanings?

Regular dental cleanings are an important aspect of maintaining oral health and preventing serious issues. The advantages of regular dental cleanings include:

• Lowering the risk of dental issues such as cavities and gum disease by removing plaque and tartar buildup.
• Improving overall health as a strong link exists between oral health and overall health. Regular teeth cleanings can help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and dementia.
• Preventing bad breath as hardened plaque and tartar can cause this. Routine cleanings can remove harmful microorganisms from teeth surfaces and help prevent bad breath.
• Cost-effective preventive dental care such as cleanings can stop issues before they occur, which can save money, time, and worry in the long run.

Regular dental cleanings are part of maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing dental issues, which can be costly, painful, and even lead to other health problems. It is essential to schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings with a dentist or hygienist to maintain healthy teeth and gums and avoid any oral health issues in the future. Call our dental practice in Inglewood for more information or to book an appointment. We offer several new patient specials!

What are the risks or complications of routine dental cleanings?

While there are no significant risks or complications associated with dental cleanings, some patients may experience temporary side effects such as teeth sensitivity or sore gums. To manage any discomfort that may occur after the cleaning, over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen, naproxen or ibuprofen can be taken. These medications can help alleviate any pain or sensitivity. Any side effects that occur are usually temporary and should resolve within a few days. Please consult with our specialist regarding any medications.

Furthermore, before the cleaning procedure, the dentist or hygienist will review the patient’s medical history, take note of any allergies or sensitivities the patient may have, and make sure that the patient is comfortable and well-informed about the procedure.

Are dental cleanings worth it?

Regular dental cleanings are an essential component of oral healthcare. Preventive treatments such as teeth cleanings are generally more cost-effective than restorative treatments like fillings, crowns, and bridges. By preventing common oral health issues, regular teeth cleanings can ultimately save money in the long term. Regular dental cleanings are an investment in your oral health and overall well-being.

Who needs more frequent dental cleanings?

It is recommended that individuals schedule regular dental cleanings with a dentist or hygienist at least twice a year, or every six months. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings if you are at a higher risk for cavities or gum disease, have a weakened immune system, or have other illnesses. In addition to routine dental cleanings, it is important to seek dental treatment if you experience any new or concerning symptoms such as toothache, bleeding gums, loose teeth, or other issues. Early detection and treatment can lead to improved oral health outcomes.

Routine dental cleanings play a crucial role in maintaining optimal oral health. During a cleaning, your dentist or hygienist will remove plaque, tartar, and biofilm (a thin layer of bacteria) that cannot be removed through regular brushing and flossing alone. To achieve the best oral health, it is important to have a combination of good at-home oral hygiene practices and regular professional dental cleanings.