At Volterra Dental Comprehensive and Aesthetic Dentistry, a dental cleaning involves several steps, including:
Step One: Oral Exam
At the beginning of a dental cleaning, your provider uses a handheld mirror to examine your teeth, gums, tongue, and cheeks. They look for signs of potential problems during the exam, like cavities or gum disease. Your provider also uses gloved hands to feel any unusual bumps or growths. If necessary, they might even take a biopsy specimen.
Step Two: Removal of Plaque and Tartar
After the exam, your Volterra Dental Comprehensive and Aesthetic Dentistry provider uses a scaler to remove plaque, harmful bacteria, and food particles from the surface of your teeth and beneath your gum line. This part of the dental cleaning typically takes the longest. You might hear scraping or scratching during this part of the procedure, but it’s nothing to worry about.
Step Three: Teeth Polishing
After cleaning your teeth, your provider uses a special, medical-grade toothpaste to clean and polish them. The toothpaste has microscopic abrasives that cut through stains and discoloration, making your teeth appear whiter.
Step Four: Flossing
Last, your provider flosses your teeth. Flossing removes any food particles and plaque that your provider missed during cleaning and polishing. It also massages your gums, reducing the risk of gingivitis and periodontitis.
Step Five: Fluoride Treatment
If you regularly experience cavities, your Volterra Dental Comprehensive and Aesthetic Dentistry provider might recommend a fluoride treatment. Fluoride is a mineral that helps strengthen your enamel, reducing the risk of tooth decay.
