Visiting the dentist for regular cleanings is an important part of good oral health and the best way to avoid dental issues in the future. If you are considering booking a dental cleaning in downtown Toronto, you might not be so sure of what to expect or how to prepare. Whether you are seeing a dentist for the first time or are coming back for a follow-up cleaning, understanding what happens at each stage of the process (before, during and then after) can help ease any worries and help you to make the most of your time at the dentist.
Before a Dental Cleaning
Sticking to your regular oral hygiene habits before your appointment is most helpful. Continuing to brush twice a day and floss at least once a day will prevent too much plaque buildup and will make your dental appointment easier for both you and the dental appointment. When you arrive for your dental appointment with your downtown Toronto dentist, try to arrive about five or ten minutes early to fill out any forms required and to share your dental history with the dental team.
Please report your habits, medications, and/or what discomfort you have been experiencing. Sharing your oral habits or experiences with discomfort can be helpful, especially for your hygienist at your cleaning appointment to tailor the care for your health care needs.
During a Dental Cleaning
What is the length of time spent cleaning your teeth? The length of time for a typical dental cleaning lasts from around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the status of your teeth and gums. Here’s what you can expect or you are looking for
1. Preliminary Examination
With the help of a small mirror, the dentist will initially check your mouth. They will look for gum inflammation, decay, or any other dental injury that might require some assistance.
2. Removal of Plaque or Tartar
The hygienist will then scale away any plaque/tartar that might have accumulated between the teeth, and along the gumline. It will probably be accompanied by scraping sounds and/or pressure, but not painful.
3. Thorough Cleaning and Polishing
After the tartar has been removed, the teeth will be polished with an electric toothbrush and gritty toothpaste. This is an important step in order to remove surface stains and leave teeth feeling smooth and clean.
4. Professional Flossing
Even if you floss at home, it’s beneficial to have your dentist or hygienist floss your teeth so they can clean areas you missed. Professional flossing will also remove any debris from the cleaning and polishing stage.
5. Fluoride Treatment (Optional)
Some dental cleanings involve placing fluoride on teeth during the cleaning. Fluoride helps to strengthen the enamel and helps protect the teeth against cavities. In most cases, fluoride can be placed on teeth as a gel or foam on the teeth for just a few minutes to manage side effects.
After a Dental Cleaning
It is not unusual for patients to have questions about what will happen after a teeth cleaning, especially with respect to any discomfort or recovery involved. Cleanings help prevent cavities long-term. Below is what you may experience:
1. Mild Sensitivity
Sensitivity following dental cleaning is normal, especially when it is a long time since you have been to the dentist, or, when there is recession of the gums. In a day or two it must die.
2. Gum Soreness or Bleeding
Some soreness or bleeding of the gums can also occur in you after having your cleaning. This would happen particularly with tartar or when your gums are inflamed and would go away in a few days.
3. Clean and Feeling Smooth
After the dental cleaning process is over, you should not only feel that your teeth are cleaner and smoother but you may also find that your teeth are even brighter. In case you underwent fluoride treatment in the course of your dental cleaning, your dentist/hygienist will tell you that you should avoid eating or drinking anything within 30 minutes of your appointment.
4. Follow-up Instructions
If you had some areas for concern noted during the dental cleaning, your dentist or hygienist may provide tips on how to improve your brushing or flossing technique, or they may provide another recommendation for treatment of that area in the future.
When to Book Your Next Cleaning
Typically, a dental professional will recommend a cleaning every 6 months, however, if you harbor a unique dental condition such as periodontal disease or a lot of plaque, your dentist near you may want to see you more often.
Conclusion: Rely on the Experts at Infinity Dental Office
If you are looking for a dentist that you can trust, and who has the knowledge and experience you can rely on, we provide comprehensive, high quality dental cleanings in a modern, friendly atmosphere. Our dental professionals will do their best to ensure your visit is both comfortable, and educational, whether you are a new patient or a continuing patient who has received care at our office before.
Schedule your next dental cleaning in downtown Toronto with Infinity Dental Office and take the next step toward a healthier, brighter smile!
