Even if you brush your teeth and floss every day, it’s still important to visit a dentist twice a year for a professional cleaning. This simple procedure maintains your oral hygiene and keeps your teeth healthy. Here's more about the benefits and what to expect during your visit.

What are the Benefits of Dental Cleaning?

A professional cleaning removes tartar from your teeth, which is difficult to get rid of by yourself. Tartar is a hardened form of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria. 

The bacteria produce acids that destroy the protective layer of enamel on teeth and irritate gums, potentially leading to cavities and gum disease. Your dentist will remove plaque and tartar so that the risk of these health issues is reduced.

Dental cleaning also tackles bad breath caused by bacteria in plaque and tartar. It clears odor-producing bacteria from pockets in the gums that occur during the early stages of gum disease. Additionally, the procedure will keep your teeth white by removing surface stains caused by food and drinks. 

What Does the Procedure Involve?

Your dentist or dental hygienist will begin by examining your mouth for any issues, such as gum disease. If there are no major problems, they'll proceed to gently scrape away plaque and tartar using a small tool called a scaler. 

The dental professional will then polish your teeth using a high-powered electric brush with a gritty toothpaste. Polishing removes any remaining bacteria and gives you a brighter smile. 

Next, they'll floss your teeth, then ask you to rinse to remove any debris. The final step is to apply a fluoride treatment. This foamy gel or paste protects against cavities and is applied using a mouthpiece. 

When you need a family dentist in Summerville or Fairmount, GA, contact Dr. Richard R. Miller Jr., DDS. This practice offers a wide range of services, including routine checkups, root canal therapy, and cosmetic dentistry treatments. Dr. Miller and his team provide personalized, high-quality care in a friendly environment. Contact the Summerville office at (706) 857-4741 or the Fairmount office at (706) 337-3347 to schedule an appointment. Visit them online to learn more about their services.