Teeth Cleanings in Indianapolis: What You Need to Know

If you live in Indianapolis, keeping your teeth clean should be at the top of your list of oral care practices. Teeth cleaning – also known as prophylaxis – is an important routine procedure that helps maintain your overall oral health. In this article, we'll discuss what you can expect during a teeth cleaning appointment, why they are so important, and how often you should schedule them.

What is a Teeth Cleaning?

A teeth cleaning, or dental prophylaxis, is a procedure where our skilled hygienists gently remove plaque, tartar, and stains from your teeth. The process may seem straightforward, but it plays an important role in preventing tooth decay and gum disease – two of the most common oral health problems affecting people worldwide.

During a typical dental cleaning, we use special tools called scalers to scrape off any built-up plaque or tartar from your teeth. This helps to reduce your risk of developing cavities and gum disease in the future. We also use a high-powered electric toothbrush fitted with a soft brush head to gently clean away stains and polish your teeth, giving you that fresh, just-from-the-dentist feeling.

Why are Teeth Cleanings Important?

Teeth cleanings play an essential role in maintaining good oral health. Here's why:

• Preventing tooth decay:
• When plaque and tartar build up on your teeth, it creates the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. Over time, these bacteria can cause cavities – small holes in your tooth enamel. By removing plaque and tartar through regular cleanings, you significantly reduce your risk of developing cavities.

Preventing gum disease:

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums caused by bacteria. It can lead to tooth loss and other serious health problems if left untreated. Regular teeth cleanings help remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums, reducing your risk of developing gum disease.

Improving bad breath:

Bad breath, or halitosis, can be caused by a buildup of bacteria in the mouth. By removing plaque and tartar during regular cleanings, you can help keep your breath fresh and maintain good oral hygiene.

What to Expect During a Teeth Cleaning

When you come in for a teeth cleaning at one of our Indianapolis locations, here's what you can expect:

1. Examination: Before we start the cleaning process, one of our experienced dentists will examine your teeth and gums to assess their overall health. They may also take x-rays if necessary.
2. Scaling: Our skilled hygienist will then use a scaler to gently remove any plaque or tartar from your teeth. This process may cause some slight discomfort, but it's an essential step in maintaining good oral health.
3. Polishing: Once the scaling is complete, we'll use a high-powered electric toothbrush fitted with a soft brush head to gently clean and polish your teeth. This helps remove any remaining stains and leaves you with that just-from-the-dentist feeling.

Throughout the entire process, we'll do everything we can to ensure your comfort. If you have sensitive teeth or gums, please let us know so we can adjust our techniques accordingly.

How Often Should You Get Your Teeth Cleaned?

The frequency of dental cleanings varies depending on your individual oral health needs. Most people should aim to have their teeth cleaned at least once every six months, but some may need more frequent cleanings if they are prone to developing cavities or gum disease.

At 24/7 Dental, we understand that life can get busy – which is why we offer flexible scheduling options to help accommodate even the busiest of schedules. Our Indianapolis dentists can work with you to create a personalized oral care plan that meets your unique needs and ensures optimal dental health.