Dental Tools and Techniques Used During Teeth Cleanings in Hilliard, OH

How Our Hilliard Dentist Cleans Your Teeth

Dental cleanings play a vital role in maintaining optimal oral health and preventing cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. This process involves the removal of plaque, tartar, and other debris from the teeth and gums. Dentists and dental hygienists utilize a variety of dental tools and techniques to ensure a comprehensive and effective cleaning.

Our dental professional in Hilliard, OH, offers valuable insights into the dental tools and instruments employed during teeth cleanings, as well as the different techniques used. To find out more, call our Hilliard dental office at (614) 771-6060.

Tools and Techniques Used for Dental Cleanings

Scaling and Root Planing

Scaling and root planing are essential techniques employed to eliminate plaque and tartar from teeth and gums. Scaling focuses on removing plaque and tartar buildup above the gum line, while root planing involves smoothing the rough surfaces on the tooth roots to deter further plaque accumulation.

These procedures are often advised for individuals experiencing early-stage gum disease. Typically, the symptoms of early-stage gum disease can be reversed through scaling and root planing.

Polishing Tool 

Polishing is the final step in the teeth cleaning process, where the surfaces of the teeth are smoothed and shined following scaling and root planing. Using a polishing tool, your dentist will buff the teeth to remove any remaining plaque and tartar. This procedure helps to make it more challenging for plaque and tartar to adhere to the teeth, thereby aiding in the prevention of tooth decay and gum disease.

Dental Explorer

A dental explorer is a frequently used tool during oral examinations to identify tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues. This instrument features a thin, sharp, pointed end with a flexible, angled tip, enabling the dentist or dental hygienist to access and examine areas that are hard to see or reach.

During an examination, the dentist or dental hygienist employs the explorer to carefully probe the teeth and gums, checking for any indications of decay or disease. It’s also utilized to assess the depth of cavities or gum pockets.

Dental Scaler

A dental scaler is an essential tool for removing plaque and tartar from teeth. Featuring a hooked end, it effectively reaches under the gum line to eliminate debris that regular brushing and flossing can’t remove. Dental scalers come in various shapes and sizes to suit different areas of the mouth. Typically made of stainless steel, they’re sterilized before and after each use to prevent infection.

During a dental cleaning, the dental hygienist uses a scaler to scrape away hard deposits of plaque and tartar from the tooth surface and gum line using its pointed or curved tip.

Ultrasonic Scaler

An ultrasonic scaler is a dental tool that employs high-frequency vibrations to effectively eliminate plaque and tartar from the teeth. This tool is more efficient and quicker than traditional manual scaling, thereby reducing the duration of the cleaning process.

Dental Mirrors

Dental mirrors are used in dentistry to help dentists and dental hygienists visualize areas of the mouth that are difficult to see with the naked eye. They’re small, handheld mirrors with angled heads, small frames, and long handles.

During a dental exam, dental mirrors are utilized to reflect light and provide a clear view of the front and back surfaces of teeth, gums, and other areas within the mouth. They assist the dentist or dental hygienist in gaining a better perspective of the teeth and gums, identifying any issues or abnormalities, and making an accurate diagnosis.

Curette

A curette is a specialized tool used by dental professionals to remove plaque and tartar effectively from beneath the gum line. Its sharp, hook-like tip enables dentists or dental hygienists to meticulously scrape away buildup from the roots of the teeth. This instrument plays a crucial role in preventing gum disease and promoting healthy gums. Utilizing a curette during a dental cleaning helps eliminate any deposits that cannot be reached through regular brushing and flossing.

Suction Device

A suction device, also known as a dental suction or saliva ejector, is used to remove saliva, water, and debris during dental procedures. This handheld tool features a flexible tube with a suction tip.

Inserted into the patient’s mouth, the suction tip is placed near the treatment area. The dentist or dental hygienist uses it to clear saliva and debris, ensuring a dry and clean environment for better visibility and accuracy.

Suction devices come in various sizes to suit different mouth areas and connect to a vacuum system that efficiently removes fluids and debris without harming the mouth or teeth. Their use is crucial for maintaining optimal oral health during dental procedures.

Dental Floss

Dental floss is a thin, wax-coated string designed to remove plaque and food particles lodged between teeth. It effectively clears away any buildup, helping to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

Dentists advise flossing at least once daily to maintain optimal oral hygiene. During a dental cleaning, your dentist or dental hygienist may demonstrate the correct flossing technique to ensure you are performing it properly at home.

Water Syringe

A water syringe is utilized to rinse the mouth during and after the cleaning process. This dental tool effectively removes any lingering debris, leaving the teeth feeling clean and refreshed. Water syringes are particularly beneficial for individuals with braces or other dental appliances that tend to trap food particles, making cleaning more challenging. It’s a standard practice to use a water syringe during a dental cleaning to ensure all areas of the mouth and tongue are thoroughly cleansed.

X-Rays

X-rays are a crucial component in dental cleanings. These advanced rays can penetrate tissues and uncover hidden issues that aren’t visible to the naked eye. By utilizing X-rays, dentists can identify cavities, bone loss, and other dental problems early, enabling them to offer effective treatment before the issues escalate.

X-rays are both safe and painless, serving as an invaluable diagnostic tool for dentists and patients alike. Through the use of X-rays, dentists can deliver comprehensive oral care, ensuring patients maintain a healthy and happy smile.