Dental Hygiene

What is dental hygiene?

Dental hygiene is the practice of caring for the health of your smile. It encompasses a wide range of activities, from the simple-yet-important habit of daily brushing and flossing at home to more involved procedures and dental treatments.

One of the most important components of good dental hygiene is regular teeth cleaning appointments with your dental hygienist.

Misty, Michelle, and Melanie at Jones Family Dental are some of the best hygienists working today, and maintaining regular teeth cleaning appointments will help to keep your oral health consistently optimized.

Practicing preventive care, like good dental hygiene, is one of the best ways to ensure the health of your smile and avoid costly and potentially painful procedures down the line.

What happens during teeth cleaning?

The first thing your dental hygienist at Jones Family Dental does when you come in for a teeth cleaning is to administer a visual exam.

Your hygienist checks your teeth and gums for any abnormalities, such as indications of decay, cavities, or gum disease, and will order X-rays if they detect a problem that needs further assessment.

Next, your dental hygienist cleans your teeth. Unlike your regular at-home brushing and flossing, your hygienist uses special tools that allow them to remove the troublesome buildup of plaque and tartar that can lead to decay and gum disease.

When your teeth are finally free of plaque and tartar, your hygienist uses a high-powered brush and professional polishing toothpaste to thoroughly brush your teeth and follows that up with professional flossing.

Depending on the condition of your teeth, they might finish the cleaning by administering a fluoride treatment to support healthy tooth enamel and fight the growth of more bacteria.

How often should I have teeth cleaning?

How often you should have teeth cleanings varies depending on the general condition of your oral health. A patient with no chronic conditions or a history of decay might need less frequent cleanings than someone with a history of gum disease or other oral health issues.

You should consult with Dr. Jones and the hygienists at Jones Family Dental to determine the best frequency for your cleanings, but the usual recommendation is twice per year.

How important is dental hygiene to my overall health?

The health of your mouth and the health of your body are closely related. Making sure that your mouth is in good condition and free of harmful bacteria can profoundly impact your overall health.

There is a link between proper dental hygiene and a decrease in instances of:

• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Arthritis
• Lung disease

Start taking care of your mouth and your body today by booking an appointment with the expert dental hygienists at Jones Family Dental. You can schedule your visit by calling the office or making an appointment online.