Were you aware that more than 31 per cent of adults throughout Ireland have at least one or more untreated cavities? This is why the importance of teeth cleaning by a dental hygienist in Cork cannot be overstated. What does this process involve? What can patients expect during an average treatment? Are there any other steps that you can take to ensure a bright and healthy smile? We will be examining each of these topics in greater detail. After all, an ounce of prevention will certainly go a long way!
Teeth Cleaning: The Basics
Teeth are some of the most functional features of our bodies, and they are exposed to a variety of potentially harmful substances. The main intention of any cleaning service is to remove any plaque and tartar that might otherwise lead to physical damage (such as cavities and gum disease). Let us also remember that regular cleanings promote better oral health; a very real concern throughout a lifetime.
Credits Photo: Teeth Cleaning: The Basics
Why This Form of Dental Hygiene Should Never be Overlooked
It is nonetheless an unfortunate fact that some individuals fail to take their dental hygiene as seriously as they should. This can result in several situations that significantly damage the teeth as well as the surrounding tissues. Some examples include (but may not be limited to):
- Halitosis (bad breath)
- Cavities
- Gingivitis
- Periodontitis (gum disease)
- Invasive procedures such as tooth extractions and root canals
- Missing teeth that could require implants, bridges or dentures
Furthermore, studies have clearly demonstrated a relationship between oral hygiene and self-esteem. Those who are ashamed of the appearance of their teeth and gums are much more likely to suffer from issues related to confidence and body image. We can now begin to see why regular dental cleanings are vital.
What Does a Typical Teeth Cleaning Session Entail?
A trained dental hygienist in Cork will perform this type of procedure, and you will be happy to know that it is minimally invasive (an important concern for those who might experience a slight phobia of the dentist). Cleanings first involve an in-depth examination of the teeth and surrounding gum tissue. This is the best way to identify any minor problems before they evolve into more serious concerns.
The technician will then begin by removing any plaque and tartar that has accumulated with the help of specialized tools. Scraping instruments and devices known as ultrasonic scalers may be used (depending on the patient and the condition of his or her teeth). This can also successfully remove any hardened plaque (known as calculus) from surfaces that are otherwise difficult to reach.
The next step involves polishing with the help of a toothpaste containing fluoride. Fluoride is a substance that helps to strengthen the outer layers of enamel. This portion of the process is also concerned with aesthetics; resulting in brighter and whiter surfaces.
Finally, the dental hygiene professional will provide personalized advice based on your unique requirements. This is yet another crucial step, as these suggestions can then be applied daily, reducing the chances that you will encounter problems in the future.
The Benefits of Working with a Professional
The preventative nature of oral hygiene is obviously important from a medical standpoint. However, what tangible advantages can you expect to enjoy? We will now examine four reasons why such cleaning should never be put off.
Staving Off Gum Disease
Gum disease can have a severely detrimental impact on your oral health. It may lead to receding gums, tooth loss, and localized infections. In fact, a tentative link even exists between periodontal disease and seemingly unrelated health issues such as diabetes. Regular examinations will be able to detect the early stages of gum disease; allowing you to leverage targeted treatment solutions before more profound damage has already been done.
Saving Time and Money
It is much easier to clean your teeth than to treat one or more cavities. Frequent appointments with a dental hygienist can therefore save a great deal of time and money. This is a particularly practical concern if your insurance coverage happens to be limited. Some procedures such as root canals and extractions can also be quite expensive, so it is once again much better to be safe than sorry. You will be happy to learn that an average cleaning session will be completed in less than an hour; easily
accommodating a busy schedule.
Fresh Breath
Bad breath (known as halitosis within the dental community) is primarily caused by bacteria that produce sulphur found within the mouth and throat. The issue here is that when left unchecked, odours will become noticeable. Note that bad breath may also be a signal of additional issues such as an oral infection. Cleanings are extremely effective at preventing bad breath; a benefit that will certainly be appreciated by friends and family members.
Showing Off Those Pearly Whites
We mentioned the psychology of a healthy smile earlier, and this aspect should never be taken lightly. Proudly displaying a bright smile will have a massive impact upon levels of self-esteem, and it exudes a sense of personal confidence. In other words, a dental hygiene appointment is a small price to pay if you are currently less than satisfied with the appearance of your teeth.
Credits Photo: Showing Off Those Pearly Whites
White and Bright
While cleaning sessions are invaluable from a preventative perspective, there can still be times when additional cosmetic work may be required. Examples include individuals who regularly drink coffee or smoke cigarettes. In either of these cases, a professional tooth whitening session could be in order. A dental hygienist in Cork will first create a mould of your mouth. This can then be used in combination with bleaching agents from the comfort of your own home; providing you with a means to further enhance your smile within a relatively short period of time. Note that there can also be instances when in-office procedures provide equally impressive results.
Sooner as Opposed to Later
Are you satisfied with the appearance of your smile? Do you suspect that an issue may be present with your teeth or gums? If so, there is no time better to address such concerns than the present. Oral hygiene should never represent a one-off procedure, but rather a habit that becomes part of your daily routine. Thankfully, help is never far off.
Do not hesitate to contact a specialist at Bandon Dental. We will be more than happy to discuss your options in greater detail, and to answer any additional questions that you may have. The fact of the matter is that we are only provided with a single set of teeth, therefore, give them the care that they deserve! Teeth cleaning is a vital part of oral care, and the smile of your dreams is well within your reach with our professional assistance.