Many people wonder whether or not regular dental cleanings are necessary, and how much good they actually do. Morton Aesthetic and Implant Dentistry has provided this page of answers to frequently asked questions about dental cleanings to help you understand your preventive care. If you have further questions, and to schedule your appointment with our caring dentist in Marietta, Georgia, please contact us at 770-973-0141.

What should I expect from a dental cleaning?

Following your dental cleaning, you can expect clean teeth, fresh breath, and an attractive smile. Dental cleanings are painless, and usually take less than 45 minutes. During your cleaning, our dentist will scrape off any plaque on your teeth, and then clean and polish your teeth to remove bacteria biofilm on and between your teeth. We may also provide a fluoride treatment if it seems that your teeth are at a higher risk for tooth decay.

How often should I have my teeth professionally cleaned?

The American Dental Association recommends that both children and adults receive a professional teeth cleaning and exam twice a year. Patients with a history of periodontal disease or another recurring oral disease or condition may require more frequent treatments.

What can I do at home to maintain clean teeth?

You should brush your teeth in the morning and before you go to bed, or after each meal. You should also floss daily, and rinse with an anti-bacterial mouthwash. This will help keep your teeth and gums healthy between dental cleanings.

Remember to change your toothbrush every 2-3 months, and avoid using hard-bristled toothbrushes, and this can cause tooth sensitivity and promote bleeding gums.

If you are experiencing dental pain, contact our dentist. Waiting could make the problem worse, and early treatment is always easier to perform, less invasive, and less expensive.

What are the benefits of a dental cleaning?

Dental cleanings keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy, and help you avoid paying for expensive dental procedures in the future. For example, when gum disease is left untreated, you may require deep cleaning (scaling and root planing), gum grafting, bone grafting, or a tooth replacement.

What can happen if I do not keep my teeth clean?

The human mouth is full of bacteria. Some forms of bacteria are beneficial to your oral health, while some can be extremely damaging. When harmful bacteria accumulate on your teeth, they release acids that erode dental enamel and inflame the gums, causing tooth decay, periodontal disease, discoloration, and tooth loss. Other oral diseases may also develop as a result of these conditions. Practicing good oral hygiene at home and receiving regular dental cleanings help to remove harmful bacteria, plaque, and tartar from your mouth and keep your teeth and gums healthy.