Dental Cleanings

William Poole, DDS

The American Dental Association recommends that you see your dentist every six months to maintain optimum dental health. During a normal check-up William Poole, DDS will clean your teeth. During a dental cleaning, plaque and tartar deposits are removed. If tartar builds up, it creates a breeding ground for bacteria. The purpose of getting your teeth cleaned is to leave the teeth clear and smooth so that the bacteria are unable to stick to the teeth.

Sometimes dentists refer to teeth cleaning as prophylaxis which is Greek for “to prevent beforehand”. Regular cleanings can prevent gum disease and help detect much more serious problems. Cleanings will also keep your teeth white so they will sparkle the next time you smile. The dental hygienist uses an ultrasonic instrument to loosen the larger pieces of tartar from the teeth. It also sprays water to move away debris from the working area. This instrument makes a high pitched sound, but is not sharp in any way. In order to reach the smaller pieces of tartar the hygienist will use a scaler and a curette. These curved hand tools are able to reach into smaller areas. The curves in these instruments match those of the teeth and make it easier to scrape off the harder-to-reach tartar on, and between, the teeth.

When the cleaning is done the hygienist may use a polisher to polish your teeth. Gritty paste is placed inside the cup part of the hand tool, and when it is applied it leaves the teeth shiny. William Poole, DDS might finish up with a fluoride treatment which will strengthen your teeth. Fluoride usually comes in different flavors and is placed into a foam tray. You will be asked to bite down for thirty seconds while the fluoride covers your teeth. After, you will rinse and spit.

Some people avoid the dentist because they are afraid of getting their teeth cleaned. If it has been a long time since you have visited the dentist, it may take longer for the hygienist to clean your teeth. If you follow up with regular dental visits, those visits will take much less time.

If at any time you feel any pain, be sure to let your William Poole, DDS know. They would be more than happy to work with you to alleviate any fear or discomfort. If you live near Leola, PA, call (717) 656-2586 to schedule your appointment today. There is nothing better than the feeling of clean teeth to enjoy when you leave William Poole, DDS.

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