Teeth Cleaning

Both children and adults can significantly reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease by undergoing professional teeth cleaning at least twice a year. At Select Dental & Orthodontics in Torrance, California, the highly trained team of dental hygienists provides teeth cleanings to help your family achieve optimal oral health. Call or schedule an appointment online today to learn more about teeth cleanings. 

What is teeth cleaning?

Teeth cleaning is a preventive measure that involves the Select Dental & Orthodontics team removing plaque ––  a mixture of saliva, food particles, and bacteria –– from beneath your gums and the surfaces of your teeth.

Removing buildup prevents harmful bacteria from causing potentially serious issues, including tooth decay, gum disease, and bone loss. 

What happens during teeth cleaning visits?

At Select Dental & Orthodontics, the hygiene department tailors teeth cleaning to your needs. However, most teeth cleaning appointments include the following steps:

Step one: Oral exam

The team uses a small mirror and gloved hands to check your teeth, gums, tongue, and mouth for abnormalities, like cavities or gum disease.

Step two: Digital X-rays

Digital X-rays use electronic sensors and other advanced technologies to capture photos of your tooth roots, alveolar bone (the bone that anchors your teeth), and jaw. The team uses X-rays to look for underlying issues invisible to the eye.

Step three: Removal of plaque and tartar

After taking X-rays, the team removes the plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from beneath your gums and the surfaces of your teeth. If you have sensitive gums or low pain tolerance, please let the team know. They offer sedation dentistry and can help you feel relaxed throughout the process.

Step four: Flossing 

After removing all of the plaque and tartar from your mouth, they floss your teeth. Flossing eliminates food particles and bacteria from hard-to-reach areas that your toothbrush won’t reach. It also massages your gums, reducing your risk of gum disease.

Step five: Polishing your teeth

Lastly, they polish your teeth with a special toothpaste. The toothpaste has tiny abrasives inside it that help remove stains and discoloration. This helps brighten your smile, making your teeth pearly white.

How often should I invest in teeth cleaning?

The skilled dental hygienists at Select Dental & Orthodontics recommend investing in professional teeth cleaning every six months. It’s possible to develop cavities and gum disease, even if you brush twice daily and floss regularly. 

Regular checkups at the hygiene department can alert you to potentially serious issues when they’re most responsive to treatment.

Call Select Dental & Orthodontics today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about teeth cleaning.