Dental Cleaning
The Hills Family Dentistry in San Marcos offers comprehensive dental cleanings, often referred to as adult prophylaxis. Dental cleanings are crucial for maintaining excellent oral health. They go beyond daily brushing and flossing, providing a deeper clean and preventive care to address issues before they escalate.
The Cleaning Process
- Initial Exam: Our dental team starts with an examination of your teeth and gums (both clinical visual exam and with xrays), checking for signs of inflammation, infection, or any abnormalities. Our amazing hygienists will gently measure your gum tissue depths to detect for any inflammation, bone loss or pocketing (tissue attachment loss). Full mouth probings are recommended annually to detect any early signs of inflammation or bone loss. We'll also discuss your current brushing and flossing habits.
- Plaque and Tartar Removal: This is the core of the cleaning. Using ultrasonic scalers or manual instruments, our hygienists meticulously remove plaque (soft, sticky film) and tartar (hardened plaque) from the surfaces of your teeth, both above and below the gum line.
- Flossing: Even the most dedicated flosser can miss some areas. Our hygienists use professional flossing techniques to reach those hard-to-reach spots and remove any remaining plaque or debris.
- Polishing: After the thorough cleaning, your teeth are polished using a gritty paste to eliminate surface stains, leaving them smooth and shiny. This step also helps prevent future plaque buildup.
- Fluoride Treatment: Depending on your specific needs, a fluoride varnish may be applied to strengthen your tooth enamel and reduce the risk of cavities.
- Oral Hygiene Instruction: Our hygienists provide personalized guidance on brushing, flossing, and other oral care practices to help you maintain excellent oral health at home.
Benefits of Regular Cleanings
- Prevent Cavities and Gum Disease: By removing plaque and tartar before they harden, cleanings help prevent cavities and gum infections, which can lead to tooth loss and other health complications.
- Fresher Breath: Cleanings eliminate bacteria responsible for bad breath, leaving your mouth feeling and smelling fresh.
- Improved Overall Health: Studies have shown that good oral health contributes to overall well-being, reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other chronic conditions.
- Early Detection of Problems: During the cleaning, our dental team can identify potential issues at an early stage, allowing for prompt treatment and better outcomes.
Frequency
The recommended frequency of dental cleanings may vary based on your individual risk factors and oral health condition. Typically, most adults benefit from professional cleanings every six months, although some may require them more or less frequently. Dr. Martin and Dr. Thomas at The Hills Family Dentistry will provide guidance on the ideal schedule for your unique needs.
Ready to maintain your optimal oral health? Schedule your dental cleaning appointment with The Hills Family Dentistry, your trusted San Marcos dentist. Discover how our comprehensive cleanings and preventive care can keep your smile bright and healthy.