Joseph Van Mieghem DDS
Family Dentist located in Lynnwood, WA
Even with the best dental habits, your teeth can collect bacteria and plaque that may lead to cavities and other problems. At Joseph Van Mieghem DDS in Lynnwood, Washington, standard teeth cleaning is just one of the many services offered by the expert team of dentists and hygienists. Whether you’re due for your check-up or it’s been awhile since your last cleaning, you’ll find a comfortable and soothing environment and leave with a cleaner, healthier smile.
Teeth Cleaning Q&A
What happens during a teeth cleaning?
Standard teeth cleaning appointments are usually fast and convenient for most patients. Usually, you're seen by a dental hygienist first.
Your hygienist starts by cleaning your teeth with a small metal tool, to scrape off tartar from the surface of your teeth. Your hygienist flosses your teeth, applies a polishing substance, and may give you a fluoride rinse.
After this is complete, your dentist inspects your teeth, checking for cavities or other problems.
About once a year, your dentist takes dental X-rays, which provide a full picture of your gum and teeth health. When X-rays are taken, you’re given a heavy apron that covers your chest and shields your body from the X-ray frequencies. As you bite down on a hard piece of plastic to align your teeth in certain positions, your dentist or technician takes pictures of your teeth.
A full teeth cleaning with X-rays usually takes about an hour, sometimes less.
Why is teeth cleaning important?
Even if your teeth look clean on the surface, dangerous plaque and tartar quickly builds up and causes numerous oral health problems. That's especially true if you don’t practice good dental habits in between your teeth cleanings.
If plaque is not removed regularly, it can harden on the teeth and create inflammation or infection in the gums.
Regular teeth cleanings also are essential because they give your dentist the opportunity to examine your mouth, throat, and jaw for signs of cancer or other diseases. Certain health conditions related to the teeth and gums, if not caught early, can cause severe problems and even tooth loss.
What can I do to maintain my results?
A proper teeth cleaning helps you avoid oral health problems, but it’s important to practice good habits at home between your dental visits. Brush and floss your teeth, ideally, after every meal, and follow your dentist’s instructions regarding how to best care for your smile. To avoid staining your teeth, avoid or minimize your consumption of coffee, red wine, or tea.
To schedule a teeth cleaning today at Joseph Van Mieghem DDS, use the online booking system.