What to Expect from Your Dental Cleaning

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A dental cleaning may seem quite basic, so for many people it can be hard to understand how important they are. A dental visit is more than just brushing your teeth, however; regular appointments allow your dentist to monitor the health of your teeth and stop early problems in their tracks.

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Why Are Professional Cleanings Important?
No matter how diligent you are with your at-home hygiene, it is all but impossible for anyone to clean their teeth as thoroughly as a dental professional. At our office we use specialized tools not available to the public and advanced training in cleaning and caring for teeth. Also, it can be hard to see and reach every part of your mouth; a third party can reach parts of your mouth that would be impossible for you alone. Studies have shown the importance of oral health to overall health; diseased gums release bacteria into your bloodstream, thus negatively impacting your body health. Therefore, it is important to regularly visit a dental professional. Visiting regularly also lets us get to know you and your dental history; once we know you, we can adjust your treatment to best suit your needs.

What to Expect
At O’Malley Dental we perform not just a cleaning, but a thorough exam as well. Your hygienist will use a special toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to carefully clean every surface of your teeth while looking for signs of decay. Your hygienist will also offer tips on how to improve your home hygiene routine, customized to your needs.

After brushing we will floss and look for signs of gum disease. Healthy gums are essential to healthy teeth.

For most patients, a fluoride paste is the last step in their dental checkup. Fluoride is a mineral that helps prevent tooth decay, and the paste lessens the likelihood of a cavity between visits. For some patients we might recommend dental sealants, which are another way to protect against cavities. We particularly recommend sealants for children.

Schedule an Appointment
If you are looking for a general dentist in the Simpsonville, SC area, Dr. Ryan O’Malley of O’Malley Dental is a family dentist offering a full suite of care to patients of all ages. To schedule your first appointment, contact us on our website or at 864-962-7672.