Dental Cleanings

A warm, inviting smile is one of the first things people notice about you. At Aloha Dental in Austin, TX, we understand the importance of maintaining that brilliant smile through regular dental cleanings. Led by our skilled and compassionate dentists—Dr. Blake Mulgrew, Dr. Holly Langdendorfer, and Dr. Jessica Wharton are committed to providing top-quality preventative care to all our patients.

What Are Dental Cleanings?

Dental cleanings are routine procedures dental hygienists perform to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from your teeth as part of our quality general dentistry. These cleanings go beyond your daily brushing and flossing, ensuring your teeth and gums remain healthy. During a dental cleaning, a hygienist uses specialized tools to clean your teeth thoroughly, targeting areas that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush.

How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?

Most dental professionals recommend getting a dental cleaning every six months. However, your dentist may advise more frequent visits if you have specific oral health concerns, such as gum disease. Regular cleanings play a crucial role in maintaining oral health and preventing more serious dental issues.

The Importance of Dental Cleanings

Maintaining good oral hygiene is vital for overall health, and dental cleanings are a key component of that maintenance. They help prevent cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues that can lead to more severe problems if left untreated.

Preventing Cavities: Cavities are small holes in your teeth caused by decay. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, feeds on sugars in your mouth and produces acids that erode your tooth enamel. Regular dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup, reducing your risk of developing cavities.
Avoiding Gum Disease: Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums that can lead to tooth loss if not treated. Early stages of gum disease, known as gingivitis, can be reversed with proper dental care. Regular cleanings help remove plaque and tartar that can cause gum disease, promoting healthier gums.
Enhancing Overall Health: Oral health is closely linked to overall health. Poor oral hygiene can contribute to various health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. Regular dental cleanings can help reduce the risk of these conditions by maintaining a healthy mouth.

The Dental Cleaning Process

Initial Examination

Before the cleaning begins, your dental hygienist will conduct an initial examination of your mouth. This involves checking for signs of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues. If necessary, X-rays may be taken to get a more comprehensive view of your teeth and gums.

Removing Plaque and Tartar

The next step involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. Your hygienist will use a scaler to scrape off plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth and along the gumline. This part of the process is crucial for preventing cavities and gum disease.

Polishing and Fluoride Treatment

Once your teeth are free from plaque and tartar, we will polish them to remove surface stains and make them smoother. This helps prevent plaque from accumulating in the future. We may also apply a fluoride treatment to tooth enamel to protect against decay. However, fluoride is an optional addition.

Oral Hygiene at Home

While professional dental cleanings are vital, maintaining good oral hygiene at home is equally important. Here are some tips to keep your teeth and gums healthy between visits to Aloha Dental.

Brushing and Flossing: Brush your teeth at least twice daily using fluoride toothpaste. Make sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth, including the front, back, and chewing surfaces. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between your teeth and the gumline.
Using Mouthwash: Incorporating mouthwash into your daily routine can help kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Look for a mouthwash with fluoride to provide additional protection against cavities.
Eating a Healthy Diet: Your diet plays a significant role in your oral health. Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks, which can erode your tooth enamel and contribute to cavities. Instead, choose a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and dairy products, promoting healthy teeth and gums.