Dental Cleanings Fort Worth

Why Are Professional Teeth Cleanings Important?

Professional teeth cleanings do more than just enhance your smile; they are vital for removing plaque and calculus (tartar) that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Even with a diligent brushing and flossing routine, it’s challenging to eliminate all the plaque that builds up, especially in hard-to-reach areas. This is where professional cleanings come into play. Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that forms on your teeth after you eat and drink. These bacteria convert sugars in your food into acids that can erode tooth enamel and result in cavities. If left untreated, plaque can harden into tartar within 24 hours, which can only be removed by a dental professional.

Regular cleanings are essential for preventing cavities, gum disease, and other oral health issues, ensuring your smile remains healthy and bright.

Who Needs Professional Teeth Cleanings?

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends visiting the dentist at least twice a year for exams and routine cleanings. However, if you have a history of gum disease, are prone to cavities, or have chronic health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease, you may require more frequent cleanings. Your dentist can offer personalized recommendations based on your specific oral health needs.

Types of Professional Teeth Cleanings

At Titanium Dental, the type of cleaning you receive depends on the health of your teeth and gums. Here are the different types of cleanings we offer:

• Prophylaxis (Prophy): This standard cleaning is for patients with healthy gums. It involves the removal of plaque, calculus, and surface stains above the gum line. Prophylaxis is typically covered by dental insurance and is recommended for those without signs of gum disease.
• Gingivitis Therapy: For patients with gingivitis, which is characterized by red, swollen, or bleeding gums, additional cleaning below the gum line may be needed. This treatment helps eliminate plaque and bacteria that cause gum inflammation.
• Scaling and Root Planing (SRP): Patients with more advanced gum disease may require scaling and root planing. This non-surgical procedure removes bacteria and tartar from below the gum line and smooths the roots of the teeth to prevent further bacterial buildup. Multiple visits may be necessary, and antibiotics may be used to treat the infection.
• Periodontal Maintenance: After treatment for gum disease, periodontal maintenance is essential to prevent recurrence. This includes regular cleanings above and below the gum line and may involve more frequent visits to the dentist.

The Teeth Cleaning Process at Titanium Dental

A professional teeth cleaning at our dental practice in Fort Worth, TX, involves several steps to ensure your teeth are thoroughly cleaned and your oral health is evaluated. Here’s what you can expect during your appointment:

• Physical Exam: We will start by conducting a physical exam of your entire mouth, using a small mirror to check for signs of gingivitis, cavities, or other concerns.
• Plaque and Tartar Removal: Using a scaler, your dental hygienist will remove plaque and tartar buildup around your gum line and between your teeth. This step is crucial, as tartar cannot be removed by brushing and flossing alone.
• Gritty Toothpaste Cleaning: After the tartar is removed, your teeth will be cleaned and polished with a high-powered electric brush and a gritty toothpaste. This helps remove any remaining plaque and surface stains, leaving your teeth smooth and shiny.
• Expert Flossing: Next, our dental hygienist will floss your teeth to ensure all debris and plaque are removed from between your teeth and along the gum line.
• Rinse and Fluoride Treatment: After flossing, you'll rinse your mouth to get rid of any leftover debris. A fluoride treatment may be applied to help protect your teeth against cavities for several months.
• Final Examination: Finally, Dr. Patel will examine your teeth and gums, discuss any findings, and recommend any necessary treatments or follow-up appointments.

Why Should You Go for Regular Teeth Cleanings in Fort Worth, TX?

• Prevent Cavities: Removing plaque and tartar helps prevent tooth decay and cavities.
• Fight Gum Disease: Cleanings reduce the risk of developing gingivitis and more severe forms of gum disease.
• Freshen Breath: Regular cleanings help eliminate bad breath caused by bacteria and plaque buildup.
• Brighten Your Smile: Cleanings remove surface stains, leaving your teeth looking brighter and whiter.
• Boost Overall Health: Good oral health is linked to overall health. Regular cleanings can lower your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other conditions.
• Detect Oral Health Issues Early: During cleanings, your dentist can identify potential issues like oral cancer, cavities, and gum disease early, allowing timely treatment.

What Are the Benefits of Deep Cleaning Compared to Regular Cleaning?

Deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, extends below the gum line to remove tartar and plaque buildup from tooth roots. This procedure is crucial for patients with advanced gum disease (periodontitis) as it helps to eliminate bacteria, reduce inflammation, and prevent further damage to the gums and bone. In contrast, regular cleaning primarily focuses on removing surface plaque and stains above the gum line.