Take Control of Your Smile with Oral Hygiene Visits at Eckland Family Dental
If you brush and floss your teeth religiously, you may not see why you should visit a dentist in Everett or Redmond, Washington, for routine dental cleanings. Although we emphasize diligent at-home oral hygiene, this alone isn’t sufficient to keep your mouth healthy. At Eckland Family Dental, your oral hygiene visits allow us to clean and access areas of your mouth that cannot be reached with at-home dental tools.
What does professional teeth cleaning involve?
Professional dental cleaning or oral prophylaxis is designed to remove built-in plaque and tartar (dental calculus) from all areas in your mouth. Dentists recommend getting your teeth cleaned twice yearly to prevent dental calculus from causing issues in your smile.
A professional dental cleaning begins with a thorough dental examination to assess the condition of your teeth and gums. Should signs of gum disease be present, your dentist might suggest deep teeth cleaning to eliminate stubborn bacteria from deep pockets between the teeth and gums. Otherwise, we’ll recommend a standard cleaning as a preventive procedure.
During a dental cleaning, the dentist uses special skills and tools to remove plaque and tartar from hard-to-reach areas in the mouth. We’ll reach every area between teeth and just below the gum line, where your toothbrush and dental floss find it hard to clean.
After cleaning, the dental hygienist polishes your teeth with gritty toothpaste to remove surface stains and give your smile a smooth, glossy finish. That’s all there is to dental cleaning! The procedure takes 45-60 minutes, but the benefits linger for many years.
Importance of dental cleanings
Visiting a dentist every six months for routine dental cleanings offers many benefits.
Some include.
- Prevention
- Early detection of oral issues
- Dental cleanings remove unsightly plaque and stains for a beautiful smile
- It saves you unnecessary dental pain
- Prevents costly treatments
With your hands full of day-to-day responsibilities, it’s easy to feel as though dental visits are an added burden. However, neglecting your smile should never be an option—it’s one of your most valuable assets. No matter what, prioritize regular dental cleanings to keep your smile radiant and healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oral Hygiene
1. What is good oral hygiene?
Maintaining good oral hygiene is taking good care of your teeth and gums to avoid cavities, gum disease, and foul breath. This entails using mouthwash, brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day, and scheduling routine check-ups and cleanings with your dentist. Maintaining good oral hygiene helps keep teeth healthy, avoids expensive procedures, and encourages a bright smile.
How often should I brush my teeth?
You should clean your teeth at least twice a day, in the morning and right before bed. Additionally, brushing after meals is advantageous, particularly if you eat acidic or sugary foods. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste, and brush for at least two minutes each time. This will support gum health maintenance, cavity prevention, and plaque removal.
Why is flossing important for oral health?
Flossing is essential because it removes food particles and plaque between your teeth, areas your toothbrush may miss. By flossing daily, you reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease. Gum disease, in particular, is linked to other health problems like heart disease, so flossing regularly is crucial for overall health. It also helps maintain fresh breath by removing debris that causes bad odor.
How can I prevent bad breath?
Bad breath, or halitosis, can be caused by poor oral hygiene, certain foods, dry mouth, or underlying health conditions. To prevent bad breath, practice good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth and tongue twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. Drinking lots of water, avoiding foods that cause strong odors (like garlic), and quitting smoking can also help. If bad breath persists, it may indicate an underlying issue requiring a dentist’s evaluation.
How does diet affect oral hygiene?
What you eat can directly impact your oral health. Eating sugary and acidic foods increases the risk of cavities and tooth decay. Sticky foods like candies can cling to teeth and contribute to plaque buildup. To protect your teeth, limit sugary snacks and drinks, and opt for a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Drinking water and chewing sugar-free gum can also help maintain a clean mouth.
What’s the best way to brush my teeth?
To brush your teeth properly, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Place the brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and gently move the brush in circular motions. Be sure to brush all surfaces of your teeth—front, back, and chewing surfaces—and your tongue to remove bacteria. Avoid brushing too hard, as this can damage your gums and enamel. Replace your toothbrush every 3-4 months or when the bristles wear out.
How often should I visit the dentist for check-ups and cleanings?
It’s recommended to visit the dentist at least once every six months for a routine check-up and cleaning. Regular visits allow your dentist to catch any possible issues, such as cavities or gum disease before they become serious. Professional cleanings eliminate plaque and tartar accumulation that brushing and flossing can’t reach. Your dentist may suggest more frequent visits if you have specific oral health concerns or conditions.
Maintaining a consistent oral hygiene routine and visiting your dentist regularly ensures your teeth and gums stay healthy for years.
Book an appointment with a dental hygienist today!
Want to discover the secret to a healthy, beautiful smile? Stay up to date with preventive dental cleanings by scheduling an appointment with Eckland Family Dental. You can contact us at (425) 448-6339 (Redmond) and (425) 249-3830 (Everett) to schedule your appointment today. We look forward to meeting you and your family.
