Jacquline Martin DDS
General Dentistry located in Silver Spring, MDThe best way to optimize your oral health is to practice good preventive care, and dental cleanings are the cornerstone of good preventive care. Next time you’re due for a cleaning, schedule a visit with Jacquline Martin, DDS, in Silver Spring, Maryland. You can book your appointment with the easy-to-use online tool or by calling the office at Jacquline Martin, DDS.
Dental Cleanings Q & A
What is a dental cleaning?
A dental cleaning is the hallmark of good, preventive dentistry. Preventive dentistry is a dental philosophy that shifts the focus away from treating problems as they arise and aims to keep your smile in a constant state of good health. The goal is to prevent problems from developing in the first place.
Dental cleanings are deep, professional cleanings of your smile. No matter how diligent you are about brushing and flossing at home, you still need to see the team at Jacquline Martin, DDS, for regular cleanings in order to remove tartar buildup and keep your smile healthy.
Cleanings and exams also give the team an opportunity to periodically check in with your oral health and keep on the lookout for signs of complications. Some conditions, like gum disease, can develop without you even realizing it, which is why it’s so important to have a professional regularly check on your smile.
What happens during a dental cleaning?
First, your dentist or hygienist conducts a visual inspection of your mouth, looking at your teeth and oral tissues for any abnormalities like cavities, decay, or gum disease. If they notice a cause for concern, they might order X-rays to get a better look at your smile.
After the visual inspection, your dentist or hygienist administers your cleaning. They use special tools that enable them to remove the hardened plaque (or tartar) that cause tooth decay and gum disease. You can’t get rid of tartar with at-home methods like brushing and flossing, which is why a routine cleaning is so important for your oral health.
Next, they give your teeth a deep brushing with a high-powered brush and professional polishing toothpaste. They finish your cleaning with a professional flossing, leaving you with a beautifully rejuvenated smile.
How frequently do I need a dental cleaning?
Most patients need two cleanings per year. Depending on the condition of your smile, though, you might need more. Patients with gum disease, for example, might require more frequent cleanings until their condition subsides. The team can help you figure out a schedule that works best for the needs of your smile.
Keep your smile healthy and beautiful by scheduling a dental cleaning at Jacquline Martin, DDS, today. Book your visit by calling the office or using the convenient online tool.