Professional teeth cleaning in general dentistry is an essential part of maintaining good oral health. However, some patients are curious to know if they can cause damage to their teeth. While it is rare, understanding the possibility can be helpful.
What to know about possible damage from teeth cleanings
Individuals who undergo professional teeth cleanings on a regular basis may be at risk of weakening their teeth. The products that general dentists use for teeth cleanings are extremely strong, which is good for mineralizing twice a year. However, it can weaken the enamel if overused. Generally speaking, individuals are recommended to only undergo two professional teeth cleanings a year. That said, some require or desire more frequent visits, which is what can lead to damage.
When professional teeth cleanings are undergone on a frequent basis, it is important that certain measures are taken to ensure that the teeth remain strong and intact. Consulting with a dentist about specific tips can be helpful, though there are a few general things that can be done.
- Undergo fluoride application to ensure that the enamel remains strong
- Request that the general dentist use gentler products during the teeth cleaning
- Avoid abrasive oral hygiene products at home
- Limit extremely hot or cold foods and beverages, such as ice cream or hot coffee
Routine
It is important to understand that routine teeth cleanings in general dentistry will not put the teeth in harm's way. General dentists are skilled and trained to properly care for teeth, which means they will not overperform cleanings. Additionally, those who are worried about the possibility can consult with a general dentist to better understand ways to prevent damage from occurring.
At-home care
Just like with professional teeth cleanings, it is also possible to overdo oral hygiene at home. Individuals should brush their teeth twice a day or after every meal; overdoing it can result in damage similar to too-frequent professional cleanings. When brushing, they should not brush their teeth too hard. Otherwise, they may damage both their teeth and their toothbrush.
Additionally, it is good to know that brushing techniques play a role. When the teeth are regularly cleaned using a hard- or medium-bristled toothbrush, there is a risk that the enamel will break down over time, which can result in long-term damage. General dentists recommend the use of a soft-bristled toothbrush for everyday teeth cleaning. Medium- and hard-bristled brushes should be used sporadically and on rare occasions when recommended by a dentist. Toothbrushes and brush-heads for electric toothbrushes should be replaced every three months.
Find out more about teeth cleaning practices
Would you like more information about professional teeth cleanings and at-home oral hygiene? The Arc Advanced Dentistry & Cosmetics team is here to answer your questions. Call our office to learn more or to schedule your next appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.arcdentistry.com or call Arc Advanced Dentistry & Cosmetics at (516) 301-9038 for an appointment in our Long Beach office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Professional Teeth Cleaning in Long Beach, NY.
Recent Posts
Laser teeth whitening, also known as laser teeth bleaching, is a popular option for dentist-supervised teeth whitening. Patients can whiten their teeth using at-home trays or by choosing to undergo an in-office whitening procedure. In-office whitening procedures sometimes use dental lasers, whitening teeth faster and more efficiently.Teeth whitening is popular because it enhances the way…
Learn why in-office teeth whitening procedures are preferred over at-home treatment and over-the-counter options. Since a dentist supervises the procedure, a stronger bleaching solution can be used than what is found in at-home kits. This allows for longer-lasting results, which can persist for as long as two years.Considering choosing a dental professional for in-office teeth…
Making a teeth whitening choice requires one to be very strategic, as there are many different types of options to decide between. The fact that some over the counter whitening products are not as safe as one may think, makes it essential for anyone who wants whiter teeth to make an educated decision. Ready to…
Everyone experiences teeth stains and yellowing, and teeth whitening can help. Regardless of the cause (injuries, genetics or discoloration from food and drinks), the truth is that staining occurs with time. Yellowing also happens as part of the aging process, even if you have a perfect oral hygiene routine.Although teeth whitening procedures can reverse yellowing…