The American Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist every six months for a routine checkup and cleaning to prevent cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. Despite this, only an estimated 45% of American adults have visited their provider in the past 12 months.
This may be partly because many people develop anxiety around dental appointments, especially if they’re worried it might hurt. Continue reading to learn more about what to expect from a professional cleaning so you can set your mind at ease!
What Happens During Dental Cleanings?
Brushing and flossing twice daily are essential to any at-home dental hygiene routine, but there’s no substitute for seeing your dentist. Seeing them consistently allows them to monitor your condition to catch and address any areas of concern, like weakening enamel or bleeding gums, before they progress into more serious issues.
First, your dentist will visually examine your teeth and gums for signs of decay and disease. They’ll also screen the soft tissues of your mouth for oral cancer to prevent this rare yet risky condition.
Next, they’ll use scalers and other special instruments to remove stubborn plaque and tartar from your enamel and along your gumline. Then, they’ll brush and floss your teeth to remove buildup and bacteria that contribute to dental problems. Finally, they’ll polish them to remove more recent surface stains before sending you on your way.
Do Dental Cleanings Hurt?
Typically, this procedure is not considered painful. However, your hygienist takes the time to reach into the pocket of your gums to clear germs from below the surface, which can cause sensitivity after the fact if you’re not accustomed to it.
This is especially true if you have waited a long period between exams or don’t floss regularly enough at home. Your gums are more likely to ooze and bleed if gunk has been allowed to accumulate over time.
How Can I Prepare for a Dental Cleaning?
The best way to be ready for your next routine appointment is to improve your dental hygiene routine. If you don’t already brush and floss thoroughly both morning and night, now’s an excellent time to start.
You might also benefit from taking an over-the-counter pain medication, like Tylenol or ibuprofen, before your appointment. That way, they kick in by the time your dentist starts working, which can alleviate the soreness from the pressure of cleansing dirty teeth. You might also try switching to a desensitizing toothpaste to numb your gums prior to arriving.
As you can see, there’s no reason to fear professional dental cleanings as long as you care for your teeth correctly at home!
Meet the Author
Dr. Phillip Sehnert has about 40 years of experience helping people build and maintain the happiest, healthiest versions of their smiles. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas, where he graduated in the top 10% of his class. Now, he’s an active member of several professional organizations, including the American Dental Association, so you know you’re in good hands. He provides a wide range of services utilizing state-of-the-art technology to improve patient comfort while delivering accurate, long-lasting results. You can request an appointment on the website or call (972) 634-7779.