Hygiene visits are vital to maintaining good oral health and are typically recommended every six months for most individuals.
Here’s what you can expect during a dental hygiene appointment:
- Plaque and Tartar Removal: The primary focus of a dental hygiene appointment is the removal of plaque and tartar (calculus) from your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth, and if not removed, it can harden into tartar.
- Scaling: Using specific dental instruments, the dentist will carefully scale the surface of each tooth to remove built-up plaque and tartar. This process is essential for preventing gum disease, cavities, and other dental issues.
- Polishing: After scaling, the dentist will use gritty toothpaste and a rotating dental tool to polish your teeth. This helps remove surface stains and leaves your teeth feeling smooth and clean.
- Flossing: The dentist will floss between your teeth and along the gumline to remove any remaining debris and ensure that your teeth are thoroughly clean.