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FAQ on Dental Cleanings

October 23, 2022
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Dental hygiene can be considered as important as your overall physical health, if not more. Unfortunately, several individuals take dental care with a pinch of salt. Dismissing your oral hygiene can cause you great distress in the future. Here are some common questions about teeth care and dental cleanings.

  1. When do I bring my child in for their first dental appointment? The objective behind your child’s first dental visit is to assist your child in feeling comfortable in the dental clinic environment and with your dentist. The general thumb rule for first visits is at the age of one year or within six months from the first tooth’s arrival.
  2.  What is expected during a dental cleaning appointment? Your dentist will check your overall teeth condition. Once the overview is completed, the cleaning will begin. If plaque and tartar are present, the dentist will use a scalar to remove the same near your gums and between teeth. Followed by a deep clean, polish, floss, and rinse.
  3. How long is a dental cleaning? Your dentist will take approximately 30 minutes to one hour to clean your teeth. The duration depends on the overall health of your teeth and the amount of plaque and tartar buildup.
  4. How often should I schedule a dental cleaning? As per most dental associations, you must visit your dentist once every six months for cleaning and fillings. If your oral health is not in great condition, you should visit your dentist more frequently for checkups. Always follow the recommendations of your dentist.
  5. Are there different types of dental cleanings? Root planing and scaling, gross debridement, and prophylaxis cleaning are the three primary types of cleaning. All three types of cleaning accomplish having cleaner teeth. Each is performed for different reasons and differently.
  6. What causes plaque and tartar? Plaque is formed as the bacteria in the mouth mixes with starchy or sugary food items such as fruit juice, milk, soft drinks, pasta, and bread. It does this to break down carbohydrates. If plaque is left uncleaned, then it hardens to become tartar.
  7. Can plaque and tartar impact my overall health? Suppose plaque and tartar are not removed; it will lead to gingivitis – gum disease. Advanced gum disease may not only lead to tooth loss but can potentially cause heart disease, diabetes, Rheumatoid arthritis, dementia, and premature birth.
  8. How is the condition of my oral cavity impacting my overall health? Several studies suggest that the bacteria in our mouth and inflammation due to periodontitis (a form of gum disease) could result in other health problems. These include cardiovascular disease, endocarditis, and pregnancy-related issues.
  9. What happens when I skip a dental cleaning? When you skip or miss a dental cleaning appointment, your plaque and tartar will remain and continue to build up.
  10. What can I do at home in between dental visits? Brush your teeth twice a day for at least 2 minutes. It is recommended to use fluoride-based toothpaste. Studies have suggested changing your toothbrush every three months. Use floss to clean in between teeth. Rinse your mouth with antibacterial mouthwash.
  11.  I have dental anxiety. What are my options? Some people get dental anxiety at the thought of sitting on a dental chair and opening their mouths for needles and drills. Do you experience stress, fear, or anxiety before visiting a dentist? There are ways that can help you reduce your dental anxiety and allow you to see your dentist. There are some psychological approaches such as :
  • Deep breathing exercise prior to a dentist visit
  • Distractions (such as requesting the dentist to put on some soothing music when in the chair.)
  • Planning with your dentist on a signal (maybe raising your thumb) to take a break between the treatment.
  • Progressive muscle relaxation
  • Sedation dentistry (for more information, contact Ashraf Dentistry or visit our blog titled, What is Sedation Dentistry)

 

It is essential to have excellent oral hygiene as a lack of the same could result in some severe health conditions in the long run. Do visit your dentist regularly and maintain oral hygiene at all times.

Would you like more information on dental cleanings? Contact Ashraf Dentistry today!

Ready when you are

Lamine Diallo
Lamine Diallo
02:21 15 Jun 22
My family and I have been receiving care from Dr. Ashraf and his amazing team since we first moved to Waterloo in 2002. His assessment skills are spot on, he is gentle and is very skilled at working with anxious\nervous patients. My dental hygienist is Lin who is very knowledgeable, and passionate about her work. She is amazingly gentle yet very,very thorough when it comes to preventative dental care. She is didactic as well, taking the time to teach patients how to use certain equipment as well as addressing gingivitis in pro-active ways. We are in very capable hands.
Trisa Kapetaneas
Trisa Kapetaneas
18:12 01 Jun 22
I have been a patient here for over 2 years now and I've always enjoyed the experience. The staff are professional and have always made me feel comfortable. I recently had a cleaning done by Lynn for the first time and she was amazing! Will continue to visit for my checkups/cleanings.
Aamir Mirza
Aamir Mirza
14:54 03 May 22
Dr. Ashraf and his team is amazing. All work done under one umbrella for entire family. We all are very happy to be under the care for the last 20 plus years. Lin, dental hygienist is remarkable professional. She knows her job so well that I look forward to my cleaning every time I'm scheduled. Thank you Lin for your amazing work for my entire family!
Alena Delena
Alena Delena
14:50 02 May 22
My family loves Dr Ashraf. We've been through many dentists in many cities and he's by far our favourite one. He's always thorough and professional. His referrals are also of equal high caliber. I went to him for a root canal and a crown. I had many concerns and he addressed them all personally. He even went so far as to redo a root canal for me. Recommend.
Nicole Wood
Nicole Wood
15:31 28 Apr 22
I found Ashraf Dentistry a year ago and I absolutely love their dental clinic. Everyone is very kind and thorough. Lin is the best dental hygienist I've ever had! She takes the time to ensure I receive the care I need. Both dentists I've seen have also been very kind and wonderful at making me feel like my teeth are being taken care of. Highly recommend!
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