Teeth Cleaning
Milwaukie, OR
Maintaining good oral hygiene is just as important as maintaining your car. If you neglect to add oil to your vehicle, the engine will eventually suffer, and it may even fail when you least expect it. Similarly, ignoring your oral health sets the stage for long-term problems. Tooth decay may progress slowly, but its effects on your teeth and gums can be permanent.
Severe tooth pain, tooth loss, and gum recession can interfere with your daily life and overall health. For many people, a professional dental cleaning feels like a reset. Afterward, your teeth look brighter, your mouth feels fresher, and you can often feel the smooth surfaces in the back of your teeth. However, the results won’t last unless you maintain them. That’s why we recommend scheduling biannual cleanings at Sue Walker Dentistry and practicing the daily oral hygiene habits recommended during your visits.
Dental Cleanings
Dental cleanings are professional treatments performed by a dental hygienist or dentist to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from your teeth. A typical cleaning takes about 30-45 minutes and begins with an oral exam. Using a small curved tool called a scaler and a mouth mirror, your hygienist carefully removes plaque and tartar along the gumline, as well as from the front, back, and in between your teeth. Once the buildup is removed, your teeth are polished with a high-powered electric toothbrush. This step not only smooths the tooth surfaces but also helps remove remaining stains. Next, your teeth are flossed to ensure every surface is cleaned, just as you should do at home. In many cases, the cleaning concludes with a fluoride treatment. This protective coating strengthens enamel and helps guard against cavities. Your dentist may also recommend X-rays to evaluate the teeth and supporting bone structures. While cleanings are generally scheduled every six months, X-rays are typically taken once a year.
Importance of Professional Cleanings
Neglecting your oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and eventual tooth loss. While decay often develops gradually, it can cause serious damage if left untreated. Substances like tobacco and certain medications can also stain and weaken enamel, leaving teeth more vulnerable to bacteria, acids, and sugars. Brushing and flossing daily are essential for maintaining strong enamel and preventing cavities. Plaque, the soft film that naturally forms on teeth, is acidic and harmful if not removed. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar, which cannot be removed with brushing alone. Tartar buildup often occurs in hard-to-reach areas such as behind the teeth, between them, or along the gumline, making professional cleanings vital. At Sue Walker Dentistry we make it simple to protect your oral health. Our team provides thorough dental cleanings in a comfortable, welcoming environment. Call us today at 971-447-4385 to schedule your next appointment and keep your smile healthy for years to come.