A teeth cleaning is a preventive dental procedure during which your teeth are cleaned by a licensed dental hygienist. During the cleaning, the hygienist will remove any plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from your teeth.
Plaque is a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva. If plaque is not removed, it can harden and turn into tartar. Tartar can only be removed with professional dental instruments. Plaque and tartar can cause tooth decay and gum disease if they are not removed, which is why it’s recommended to get professional teeth cleaning in Evanston every six months. In addition to removing plaque and tartar, the hygienist will also polish your teeth and may provide you with a fluoride treatment.
If you have any questions or concerns about what you can expect, be sure to talk to your dentist before the appointment. In general, though, teeth cleaning usually takes about 30 minutes to complete. You should expect to feel some pressure during the cleaning, but it should not be painful. You may also experience some discomfort after the cleaning, especially if you have sensitive gums or have not had a cleaning in several years. This is normal and should resolve within a day or two.
A teeth cleaning is an important part of maintaining good oral health. If you are due for teeth cleaning in Evanston, Illinois, it’s time to treat yourself to a beautiful, healthy smile. To learn more, request an appointment with a qualified dental professional at Stephens Dentistry.
