Professional Teeth Cleanings
Twice a year, when you visit your dentist for a checkup and professional cleaning, you are probably given instructions on proper oral hygiene. This will include brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day, using toothpaste containing fluoride, and using a soft-bristled toothbrush. Toothbrushes can’t reach every area of your mouth, which is why floss is such an important tool to reach all the nooks and crannies in and around each tooth. It’s important to remove the food particles and residue to prevent tooth decay and gum disease from developing. There are other tools that you can add to your oral hygiene routine, such as interdental cleaning devices.
Interdental Brushes
Some patients don’t like flossing, have difficulty flossing correctly, or don’t floss enough. Interdental brushes are a great alternative to removing extra debris between your teeth, especially near the molars, where it may be harder to reach with floss. These brushes look similar in shape to a pencil, with a metal wire core and soft nylon filaments twisted around the brush head. They are easy to use and even improve the amount of tooth surface area they can clean. If you’re suffering from gum disease, interdental brushes are a more gentle approach to flossing. With minimal bleeding of the gums and ultimately minimal damage, interdental brushes can help to halt the progression of gum disease.
There are different types and sizes of interdental brushes, so choosing one that works uniquely for your teeth may be a hard choice. Here’s what to keep in mind when choosing your interdental brush:
- The correct size of brush depends on the amount of spacing between your teeth.
- If you have dental crowns or fillings, consider choosing a brush that has a coating on the inner wire.
- Decide which type of handle works best for you, a straight handle or a curved handle. Typically, a straight-handled brush works better.
- If you have sensitive teeth or roots, consider choosing an interdental brush made of rubber instead of nylon.
Oral Irrigation Devices
Also known as a water pick or water jet, an oral irrigation device is another alternative to flossing. It uses a stream of pressurized, pulsating water to clean in between the teeth and around the gum line. This type of device is recommended for people who are unable to tolerate flossing every day. If you have sensitive gums, orthodontic appliances, diabetes, or dental implants, an oral irrigation device might be a better option compared to traditional flossing. Oral irrigation devices are less irritating, easier to maneuver, and can remove more plaque than traditional flossing or for those who only brush.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get my teeth cleaned?
Most patients benefit from a professional cleaning every six months. If you have gum disease, build tartar quickly, or have conditions like diabetes, we may recommend every 3 to 4 months — prevention is far more affordable than treatment.
Does a dental cleaning hurt?
A routine cleaning should not hurt. Some patients with sensitive teeth or inflamed gums feel mild discomfort — we can apply numbing gel or adjust technique to keep you comfortable. Regular cleanings actually reduce sensitivity over time as gums get healthier.
How long does a teeth cleaning take?
Typically 45 to 60 minutes, including scaling, polishing, flossing, and a fluoride application if due. First visits may include a full exam and X-rays, so allow a little longer.
What's the difference between a cleaning and a deep cleaning?
A routine cleaning removes plaque and tartar above the gumline to prevent disease. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) treats existing gum disease by cleaning below the gumline where pockets have formed. After your exam, we’ll tell you which one you actually need.