Regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaining optimal oral health, but many patients are unsure about when they should visit the dentist's office.
At Keystone Rural Health Consortia in Bradford, PA, Dr Stacy Hey, DMD, and dental hygienist Brittany Elton, RDH, PHDHP, encourage patients to recognize the subtle and not-so-subtle signs that indicate it’s time for a professional teeth cleaning. Early intervention through regular cleanings helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and other dental issues, protecting your overall health and saving money on future treatments.
Here are six key signs that you should schedule a teeth cleaning appointment:
Sign #1. Bleeding or Swollen Gums
Healthy gums shouldn’t bleed regularly, especially during brushing or flossing. If you notice blood when rinsing or if your gums appear swollen and tender, these are early signs of gum disease (gingivitis).
Dental cleanings remove plaque buildup along the gum line that causes inflammation and bleeding, helping to prevent the progression into periodontal disease, which can ultimately lead to tooth loss.
Sign #2. Persistent Bad Breath
Occasional bad breath can happen to anyone, but chronic bad breath (halitosis) could indicate an underlying oral health issue. Plaque and tartar harbor bacteria, leading to persistent bad odors that brushing and flossing alone may not resolve.
A professional cleaning effectively removes tartar and bacteria buildup, restoring your breath and maintaining your oral hygiene.
Sign #3. Teeth Feel Rough or Gritty
When plaque accumulates, your teeth may feel gritty or rough even after brushing. This indicates that tartar has begun to form, which cannot be removed by regular brushing or flossing.
During a professional dental cleaning, your hygienist will use specialized tools to safely remove hardened plaque, leaving your teeth smooth and protecting your tooth enamel from decay.
Sign #4. Tooth Sensitivity to Hot and Cold
If you experience discomfort or pain when consuming hot or cold foods and beverages, it could signal tooth sensitivity caused by exposed tooth roots, enamel wear, or cavities.
Regular dental cleanings and examinations allow your dentist and hygienist to identify sensitive areas, offer fluoride treatments, and provide preventive guidance to reduce sensitivity and maintain a healthy mouth.
Sign #5. Visible Plaque, Tartar, or Staining
Yellowish or brownish deposits, known as tartar, along your gum line or between teeth clearly indicate it's time for professional intervention. These stains and deposits cannot be removed by brushing alone.
A professional teeth cleaning procedure at Keystone Dental effectively removes these deposits, brightens your smile, and keeps your teeth healthy.
Sign #6. It’s Been Over Six Months Since Your Last Dental Visit
The American Dental Association recommends regular dental cleanings every six months to maintain oral health and prevent dental problems. If it's been longer since your last cleaning, it's important to schedule an appointment, even if you don't notice any issues.
Routine cleanings allow your dental hygienist and dentist to monitor changes in your oral health, perform oral cancer screenings, and address minor issues before they become significant concerns.
What to Expect During a Professional Teeth Cleaning
When you come to Keystone Dental in Bradford for a teeth cleaning, our goal is to make the visit thorough, comfortable, and personalized. Here’s what typically happens during your appointment:
1. Comprehensive Oral Examination
Your visit begins with a careful evaluation of your teeth, gums, and any existing restorations. This step allows the dentist or dental hygienist to check for early signs of tooth decay, gum disease, or other oral health concerns that may need attention.
2. Gentle Plaque and Tartar Removal
Using professional-grade instruments, your hygienist will gently remove plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) from areas your toothbrush can’t reach, especially around the gum line and between teeth. This step is key to preventing gum disease and cavities.
3. Polishing with Professional Tools
After plaque removal, your teeth are polished with a mildly abrasive toothpaste and a high-powered electric brush. This process helps eliminate surface stains and leaves your enamel feeling smooth and clean.
4. Flossing Between the Teeth
Next, your hygienist will floss thoroughly between each tooth, removing any remaining plaque or debris and ensuring the spaces between your teeth are clean and healthy.
5. Rinse and Optional Fluoride Treatment
You’ll be given a rinse to wash away any loosened particles. If appropriate, your provider may apply a fluoride treatment to strengthen your tooth enamel and help prevent cavities, especially helpful for patients at higher risk of decay.
Your Trusted Dental Care in Bradford, PA
A professional teeth cleaning is more than a cosmetic touch-up—it’s a necessary part of protecting your health. If any of these signs sound familiar, it may be time to book your next appointment.
At Keystone Dental in Bradford, we provide comprehensive cleanings and preventive care in a comfortable, family-friendly environment. Call us at (814) 362-5060 or request your appointment online. Dr. Stacy Hey and Brittany Elton are here to help you maintain a healthy mouth for life.
