Demystifying the Dental Cleaning Toolkit: Achieving a Healthier Smile
At the Center for Advanced Dentistry, we utilize specialized dental cleaning tools and techniques to ensure your teeth are thoroughly cleaned and your oral health is at its best. Understanding the tools of the trade can empower you to appreciate the precision and care that goes into your dental cleanings.
We proudly serve Fort Collins, Greeley, and Berthoud. Call one of the best dentists in Loveland, CO, Dr. Howard, today at (970) 669-3918 to schedule your appointment and experience the difference personalized dental care makes.
The Foundation: Examination and Assessment Dental Tools
Before cleaning begins, Dr. Howard and our skilled hygienists conduct a thorough examination. This assessment is crucial for understanding your unique oral health needs and identifying potential issues.
Several key tools assist in this process:
- Dental Mirrors: These small, handheld mirrors of stainless steel are essential for visualizing areas of your mouth that are difficult to see directly, such as the back surfaces of your teeth and gums. They also reflect light, illuminating hard-to-reach spots.
- Probes: These slender instruments with a pointed tip examine the gum tissues surrounding your teeth. Periodontal probes measure the depth of the gum pockets, helping to detect any signs of gum disease.
- Explorers: These professional dental tools have a thin, pointed end that allows Dr. Howard to gently feel the surfaces of your teeth, checking for cavities or soft spots in the enamel.
The Cleaning Arsenal: Removing Plaque and Tartar
Once the examination is complete, the cleaning process begins. Our hygienists are adept at creating a relaxing atmosphere, understanding that some patients experience anxiety about dental visits.
Several specialized tools are used to remove plaque and tartar:
- Scalers: These instruments, available in various shapes and sizes, are designed to remove plaque and tartar (calculus) from the surfaces of your teeth, particularly along the gum line. Some scalers are manual, while others are ultrasonic.
- Ultrasonic Scalers: These high-tech devices use vibrations to loosen and remove stubborn tartar and plaque. They also spray a fine mist of water, which helps to flush away debris and keep the area clean.
- Curettes: These smaller, more delicate instruments are used to remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line, in the gum pockets. They are essential for maintaining healthy gums and preventing gum disease.
Polishing and Finishing Touches
After the plaque and tartar are removed, your teeth are polished, and other finishing touches are applied:
- Prophy Cups and Paste: A small, soft cup attached to a slow-speed handpiece is used with a slightly abrasive polishing paste to remove any remaining surface stains and smooth the teeth.
- Dental Floss: Flossing is a crucial part of any dental cleaning. Our hygienists demonstrate proper flossing techniques and provide personalized recommendations to help you maintain good oral hygiene at home.
- Fluoride Treatment Trays or Varnish: A fluoride treatment may be recommended to strengthen your tooth enamel and protect against cavities. Fluoride can be applied as a gel, foam, or varnish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most patients experience minimal discomfort during a dental cleaning. Hygienists are very gentle, and we take steps to ensure your comfort. If you have sensitive teeth or gums, please let us know, and we will adjust our techniques accordingly.
The American Dental Association recommends professional dental cleanings every six months for most people. However, your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend more frequent cleanings depending on your needs, any tooth decay, and oral health status.
The most important thing you can do is to brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes each time and floss daily. You should also eat a balanced diet, limit sugary snacks and drinks, and avoid tobacco use.
Beyond the Teeth Cleaning Tools: The Human Touch in Loveland
While these tools are essential for effective dental cleanings, they are only part of the equation. The skill, experience, and compassion of Dr. Howard and our hygienists are what truly make your experience at the Center for Advanced Dentistry in Loveland, CO, exceptional.
Schedule your appointment today by calling our Loveland dental office at (970) 669-3918. Discover why patients in Evans, Garden City, and Windsor trust Dr. Howard with their oral health and why you can too.