Will A Dental Cleaning Damage My Teeth?

Dental cleanings are an important part of your oral care routine. Cleanings are usually performed by a licensed dental professional who is trained to remove tartar and plaque that are impossible to address on your own. Unfortunately, many people forgo regular dental cleanings at MINT dentistry because they are unsure about the process.

So, what happens at a dental cleaning, and can cleaning damage my teeth? You may be surprised to learn that our dentists do not harm or damage your enamel in any way. To learn more about scheduling a cleaning appointment in Dallas or Houston, TX, contact a knowledgeable member of our team. We can help you take care of your teeth.

What happens at a dental cleaning?

So, what happens at a dental cleaning? A cleaning goes above and beyond the capabilities of simple brushing and flossing. MINT dentistry begins by using special instruments to remove plaque and tartar from all the surfaces of your teeth. We then floss between your teeth to clean surfaces that cannot be reached by our instruments. Polishing near the end of your visit creates a smooth, clean finish.

Having your teeth cleaned is usually painless and noninvasive. Anesthesia is not required, and the entire process can be performed relatively quickly based on the amount of plaque buildup involved. A dental cleaning is also the perfect time for your dentist to check for signs of gum disease or other issues that could be impacting your health.

In addition to preventing tooth decay and other oral issues, additional benefits of getting your teeth cleaned include gaining a brighter smile. This is because routine cleanings may remove stains that discolor your teeth. Cleanings can also remove some food particles that contribute to bad breath.

What happens if you miss your cleanings

As we mentioned before, regular cleanings can prevent some dental issues from happening in the first place. Here are just a few examples of what might happen if you do not take care of your teeth or miss your cleaning appointments in Dallas or Houston, TX:

• Cavities: decayed areas of your teeth that result from tartar and plaque buildup

• Gum disease: when tartar and plaque buildup irritates the gums, causing them to become inflamed and red

• Bad breath: bacteria and food particles can lead to halitosis, or chronic bad breath

• Tooth loss: gum infection damages the soft tissue and destroys the bones that support your teeth

Dental cleanings do not damage your teeth

Some people are concerned that dental cleanings damage the enamel, or the thin outer covering of the tooth. Even though the enamel is thin, it is also tougher than you think. A dentist cannot break down the enamel with simple dental tools. However, enamel erosion does occur over a long period of time when consuming a diet high in sugars, starches, and acidic foods. Other potential causes of tooth erosion include medical conditions, like acid reflux, and environmental factors, such as tooth grinding.

Take care of your teeth

It is never too late to contact MINT dentistry for a comprehensive dental cleaning. By making sure you attend regular visits to the dentist, you are working toward a clean, healthy, and gorgeous smile. If you want to know how to better take care of your teeth, call our office in Dallas or Houston, TX. We can help you take control of your oral health again.