Dental cleanings are the cornerstone of good oral health. Since you cannot see what is happening inside your mouth, you might be curious about the actual procedure of having a dental cleaning.
When you have a teeth cleaning at our Encinitas dental office, we follow a protocol that allows us to effectively address your current oral health and it starts before your dental cleaning begins!
Step One: Your Dental Exam
It is at your dental exam with Dr. Scott Jordon that any conditions, such as decay, gum disease, bone loss, or damaged teeth, will be identified. Dr. Jordon’s assistant will chart information throughout your exam, so that Dr. Jordon can share his findings with you afterward.
Step Two: Your Dental X-Rays
Did you know that having x-rays allows us to provide a better dental cleaning? Tartar between teeth and beneath your gumline actually appears in our digital images even though it may not be visible with the naked eye. This allows our dental hygienist to focus in on problem areas to promote better gum health.
Step Three: Counting
If you hear us counting out loud at the start of your dental cleaning, it is because we are measuring any pockets between your teeth and gums. One, two, and three are healthy numbers. Numbers four and above indicate an infection. If you have an infection, we will gear your dental cleaning toward helping your gums heal.
Step Four: The Best Part
Nothing feels better than the fresh, smooth feeling of a teeth cleaning. Our Encinitas dental team takes their time, making sure to remove tartar from every surface of your teeth using handheld precision hygiene instruments or an ultrasonic scaler that uses a high-pressure water system to gently break up tartar and flush it away.
Each dental cleaning appointment ends with a polish that uses a fine abrasive to remove any tiny particles of tartar and to reduce surface stains on your teeth. The result? A fresh clean smile that looks and feels great!
Is It Time for Your Next Teeth Cleaning?
Call our Encinitas, CA dental office and allow us to help you get back on track to excellent oral health and a beautiful smile.