What Happens During a Professional Dental Cleaning?

Maintaining optimal oral health goes beyond daily brushing and flossing; it also requires regular professional dental cleanings. These appointments are crucial in preventing dental issues, ensuring your teeth and gums stay healthy, and keeping your smile bright. At Folsom Family Dental, Dr. Colleen Kimball Bullard and her team are dedicated to providing top-notch dental care to the Boulder, CO community. But what exactly happens during a professional dental cleaning? Let's dive into the process and discover why it's an essential part of your oral health routine.

Initial Examination

The first step in a professional dental cleaning is a thorough examination of your oral health. Dr. Bullard or a skilled dental hygienist will carefully inspect your teeth and gums to identify any signs of decay, gum disease, or other potential issues. This examination may include:

• Checking for cavities or weak spots in the enamel.
• Assessing the health of your gums and looking for signs of gingivitis or periodontitis.
• Reviewing any previous dental work to ensure everything is intact and functioning properly.

This initial examination helps the dental team create a personalized cleaning plan tailored to your specific needs.

Removing Plaque and Tartar

Once the examination is complete, the next step is the removal of plaque and tartar buildup. Even with diligent brushing and flossing, plaque can accumulate in hard-to-reach areas, eventually hardening into tartar. This process involves:

• Using tools to gently scrape away tartar from the tooth surfaces and gum line.
• Focusing on areas that are often missed during regular oral hygiene practices.

Removing these deposits is essential in preventing cavities and gum disease, ensuring your teeth remain healthy and strong.

Polishing and Flossing

After the plaque and tartar have been removed, the dental hygienist will polish your teeth to remove surface stains and give them a smooth, shiny finish. This step includes:

• Using a high-powered electric brush and gritty toothpaste to polish the teeth.
• Flossing between your teeth to remove any remaining debris and ensure a thorough clean.

This stage not only enhances the appearance of your smile but also helps to prevent future plaque buildup.

Fluoride Treatment

The final step in a professional dental cleaning is often a fluoride treatment, which serves to strengthen your teeth and protect them against decay. This process involves:

• Applying a concentrated fluoride gel or foam to your teeth.
• Allowing the fluoride to sit for a few minutes to maximize its protective benefits.

Fluoride treatments are particularly beneficial for children and individuals prone to cavities, providing an extra layer of defense against tooth decay.

Schedule Your Professional Dental Cleaning in Boulder, CO

Regular professional dental cleanings are a cornerstone of maintaining excellent oral health. At Folsom Family Dental, Dr. Colleen Kimball Bullard and her team are committed to providing comprehensive dental care to ensure your smile stays healthy and beautiful. If you're in Boulder, CO, and it's time for your next dental cleaning, don't hesitate to reach out. Call us today at (337) 258-6841 to schedule your appointment and take the next step towards a healthier, brighter smile.