Routine teeth cleanings at the dentist’s office are important for maintaining better oral health. Dental hygienists have the skills, training, and tools to clean the teeth more thoroughly than is often possible at home. Professional cleanings are also the only way to remove tartar buildup from teeth. Dr. John Lynch, Dr. Sheila Lynch, and Dr. Frances Lynch, the skilled dentists at Lynch Dental Center in River Forest, IL, provide teeth cleanings and other services to help you maintain a healthy mouth.
Components of a Teeth Cleaning
There are several components to having your teeth professionally cleaned. The first step is to conduct an oral exam to assess the health of oral tissues, such as the gums. The dental hygienist will begin cleaning the teeth next. Different tools can be used to clean the teeth, such as various metal instruments or an ultrasonic scaler. The tools are used to scrape away plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth. Once the teeth are cleaned, they are gently polished with a soft brush and special gel.
Benefits of Teeth Cleanings
Scheduling routine teeth cleaning about once every six months has many benefits. An experienced dentist at our River Forest, IL, dental office can determine how often you need routine cleaning.
One of the primary benefits of professional teeth cleaning is that the dental hygienist can clean your teeth more thoroughly than you can at home. The hygienist has tools that can get into small or challenging areas, such as around the molars, that are hard to reach with a toothbrush or dental floss.
Another benefit of professional cleaning is that it is the only way to completely remove tartar buildup. Tartar, or calculus, forms when plaque hardens on the teeth. One of the reasons it cannot be cleared off the teeth by brushing and flossing is that tartar bonds to tooth enamel. Another reason it is difficult to remove is that it can form below the gum line, where brushing and flossing cannot always reach.
A significant benefit of routine teeth cleanings is that they lead to better oral health, especially when combined with an effective at-home oral hygiene routine. Regular cleanings can help prevent serious oral health issues, such as decay or gum disease, from developing.
Finally, good oral health has been linked to better overall health. Oral bacteria can make their way to other areas of the body and increase the risk of developing certain health issues, such as cardiovascular disease. Routine teeth cleanings can reduce your risk by clearing away harmful oral bacteria.
Routine teeth cleanings promote better oral health and can even contribute to better overall health. For teeth cleaning and to see a dentist in River Forest, IL, schedule an appointment with Dr. John, Dr. Sheila, or Dr. Frances by calling Lynch Dental Center at (708) 366-6411. Our Chicago office can be reached at (312) 263-3235.
