Dental cleanings are an important part of taking care of your teeth. They are visits to the dentist where they clean your teeth really well. Essentially, they are like superheroes for your teeth! Imagine tiny tooth fairies with magical tools swooping in to make your teeth sparkle. Dentists use these special tools to remove two sneaky villains: plaque and tartar.
Why Are They Important?
Dental cleanings are more than just brushing your teeth. They have incredible value for your oral health and overall wellness.
Preventing Cavities: Plaque is a sticky film that forms on your teeth when you eat sugary or starchy foods. It’s like a cozy blanket for bacteria, and they love to make holes in your teeth called cavities. Dental cleanings help to kick out this plaque before it invites trouble.
Gum Disease Prevention: Have you ever heard of gum disease? It’s when your gums get mad and swollen because of too much plaque and tartar. If left alone, it can even make your gums run away from your teeth! But regular cleanings can keep your gums happy and healthy.
Fresh Breath: Let’s talk about bad breath, the dragon of the mouth! Plaque and tartar can make your breath smell not-so-pleasant. But fear not! Dental cleanings can banish this dragon and leave your breath smelling like a bed of roses.
How Often Should You Get Cleanings?
Think of dental cleanings as a secret weapon that you use every six months. That’s right, every half-year, it’s time for a dental adventure! For some heroes with extra tricky teeth, they might need to go more often. Your dentist will be the wise wizard who guides you on this journey.
What Happens During a Cleaning?
Removing Plaque and Tartar: Here comes the exciting part! The dentist or their trusty sidekick, the dental hygienist, will use special tools to scrape off the plaque and tartar from your teeth carefully. It might sound like a funny noise, but don’t worry, it’s not scary!
Polishing: Next up, it’s time to polish those pearly whites! Imagine your teeth getting a mini-spa treatment. The dental fairy godmother will make them shiny and smooth, ready to dazzle the world.
Fluoride Treatment: Have you ever heard of a tooth superpower? That’s fluoride! It’s like a magical shield that makes your teeth stronger and fights off cavities. Sometimes, your dentist will give your teeth this extra boost.
What Can You Do at Home?
To keep the good clean going, there are steps at home you can take every day.
Brushing: Grab your toothbrush, and let’s do the toothbrush tango! Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. This helps to remove the sneaky plaque before it turns into tartar.
Flossing: Ah, the dance of dental floss! Use it once a day to clean your teeth. It’s like getting rid of tiny food villains that hide in the spaces.
Eating Healthy: It’s time to be a superhero at the dinner table! Eating healthy foods, like crunchy veggies and juicy fruits, can also help keep your teeth strong and healthy.