What Happens When You Visit the Dentist for a Clean?

Wondering if it’s worth going to your local dental clinic for that check-up and clean? Or are you feeling a little anxious? Understanding what will happen during your visit, from the examination to cleaning and any necessary treatments, can help you mentally prepare and feel more in control. Additionally, learning about the importance of regular dental check-ups and cleanings can help you feel more motivated to keep up with your dental care.

It’s important to remember that visiting the dentist and the benefits of maintaining good oral hygiene are well worth the effort and time out of your day. Your bi-yearly check-up and clean is crucial to your long-term health and wellbeing.

What You Can Expect From a Check-up and Clean?

Step 1: Examine Your Teeth & X-Ray Them

During a dental check-up or examination, your dentist will visually inspect your teeth and gums, looking for any signs of decay, gum disease or other dental problems. They may use a small mirror and probe to get a closer look at hard-to-reach areas, such as behind the teeth and along the gum line. This examination is important to identify any issues early on, before they become more serious and require more extensive treatment. If necessary, your dentist may also take x-rays as part of the examination.

X-rays can provide a more detailed look at the teeth, jawbone and surrounding tissues. This helps your dentist identify any hidden problems that may not be visible during the visual examination. X-rays can also help your dentist plan treatments, such as fillings, crowns, or root canals, and monitor the progress of ongoing treatments.

Step 2: Remove Any Plaque & Tartar

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth and gums. If plaque is not removed, it can harden into tartar, which is a tough substance that can only be treated by a dental professional. Tartar buildup can lead to tooth decay and gum disease, which can cause tooth loss and other serious health problems. This is why it is so important to regularly have your teeth cleaned by your dentist.

During a dental cleaning, your dentist will use a combination of tools, such as a scaler or ultrasonic device, to remove the buildup of plaque and tartar from your teeth and gum line.

Step 3: Clean Your Teeth

After removing plaque and tartar, dentists clean teeth to ensure that they are free from any remaining bacteria or debris. This cleaning process is also known as polishing. Your dentist will use a polishing instrument with a soft rubber cup and a polishing paste to get your teeth looking their best.

The paste contains an abrasive substance, usually a fine-grit pumice, which helps to remove any remaining stains and surface imperfections on the teeth. The polishing process also helps to make teeth look brighter and smoother, leaving you with a refreshed smile. Additionally, it can help to prevent future plaque buildup, as bacteria will have a harder time adhering to the smooth surface of the teeth.

Not only will you leave your dentist’s clinic with lovely looking teeth that feel oh-so-smooth, having them professionally cleaned is actually an essential part of maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing future dental problems.

Step 4: Expert Flossing

Regular flossing, along with brushing and dental check-ups, is an important part of maintaining good oral hygiene and preventing dental problems. Regardless of how often you floss, however, a professional flossing session is always recommended. This helps remove any remaining debris or plaque from between your teeth and along the gum line, where a toothbrush may not be able to reach.

This is important because plaque buildup can lead to gum disease, which can cause redness, swelling and bleeding of the gums, and even eventually tooth loss. Flossing can also help to remove food particles that may be stuck between your teeth, which will help you avoid bad breath. During the expert flossing process, your dentist will use a piece of floss to clean between each tooth, reaching down to the gum line.

They will typically use a long piece of floss, and they may also use specialised tools to reach difficult-to-access areas. You can expect that your dentist will carefully and gently slide the floss between each tooth, curving it around the base of the tooth and moving it up and down to remove any debris or plaque. They might also provide guidance on proper flossing technique and recommend any additional steps that may be necessary to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Step 5: Fluoride Treatment

At the end of your check-up, your dentist may apply a fluoride treatment to your teeth. This helps strengthen your teeth and prevent tooth decay. Why? Because fluoride is a mineral that can help to remineralize tooth enamel, making it stronger and more resistant to acid attacks from plaque and bacteria.

This is a quick and painless treatment. Once your dentist has cleaned your teeth, they will apply a concentrated fluoride gel, foam or varnish to your teeth using a brush, swab, or tray. The treatment is left on your teeth for a few minutes so they can absorb the mineral. You may then be asked to spit or rinse your mouth out.

Fluoride treatment is especially important for anyone who is at higher risk for tooth decay, such as children, seniors, and those with weakened enamel or a history of cavities. It can also help to even reverse early signs of tooth decay and prevent the need for more extensive dental treatment in the future.

Find a Dental Clinic You Feel Good About

Going to the dentist can be a source of anxiety for many people, but finding a clinic where you feel comfortable can help alleviate some of that stress. A dental clinic that prioritises patient comfort and offers a welcoming environment can help you feel more relaxed and less nervous about your visit. Additionally, having a positive relationship with your dentist can help build trust and make you more likely to keep up with regular check-ups and cleanings, leading to better overall oral health.

Langmore Dental is home to friendly and experienced dentists who are local to the Narre Warren area. The professionals that make up our team care about the patient experience, and use open communication to help their patients feel at ease. If you’re looking for a reliable, approachable and professional dental clinic near Narre Warren, come visit our dentists at Langmore Dental.