Why You Should Have Your Teeth Cleaned By A Dental Hygienist

Sharon L. Albright • May 8, 2024

Having a clean, healthy smile can definitely make you feel good about yourself.

Even though you may be very diligent about your oral hygiene with daily flossing and brushing you still need regular professional cleanings, also known as dental prophylaxis performed by a dental hygienist. Why? Because although proper brushing and flossing will remove most of the plaque that forms, it is impossible to eliminate it totally because our bodies produce plaque (dental biofilm) continuously. Immediately after your teeth are cleaned, a the clear, sticky film of plaque begins to form again. If this biofilm is left anywhere undisturbed for 2-3 weeks, gingivitis develops. Eventually, plaque that is left undisturbed will harden and attach to your teeth. These hard deposits are called calculus or tartar. Once tartar has attached to the teeth, brushing and flossing will not remove it. Tartar must be removed completely with dental instruments. Complete removal is key because tartar is significant in the progression of inflammatory periodontal disease which may not only cause a bad breath, but lead to other serious problems, both medical and dental.

Dental Hygienists Are Dental Professionals Who Specialize In Oral Hygiene

A dental hygienist is a licensed dental professional who specializes in promoting oral health and preventing periodontal disease. Dental hygienists perform many roles in a dental office including:

Removing hard and soft deposits (tartar and plaque) as well as stains from teeth.
Giving personalized oral hygiene instructions to patients.
Administering cavity prevention treatments such as fluoride and sealants.
Performing scaling and root planning for patients with periodontal disease
Educating patients about periodontal disease and the importance of good oral hygiene.

Dental Hygienists Clean Teeth Thoroughly

Dental hygienists use different tools to complete individual patient assessments; they use hand instruments and often, ultrasonic devices to remove tartar, plaque, and stains. Removal of tartar provides smooth tooth surfaces which facilitate teeth cleaning at home and promote gingival healing. Dental hygienists devote their undivided attention to these tasks, as they are trained specifically for it. Dental hygienists strive for excellence in this area, because they know healthy gums are the foundation for healthy teeth and influence overall health.

Dental Hygienists Are Highly Educated And Skilled

Dental hygienists have undergone extensive education and training to provide dental hygiene care to their patients. An Associate of Arts degree from college is the minimum requirement to apply for Dental Hygiene school where 2 years of rigorous education combines classroom and clinical coursework in dental hygiene studies. Dental hygienists use their clinical skills to provide the highest standard of oral hygiene care and their interpersonal skills to motivate patients to achieve and maintain oral health. Dental hygienists with their extensive and specialized education are very highly regarded professionals within the dental community.

See our dental hygienist for your professional teeth cleanings, you will be glad you did. Make an appointment today.

Learn more about why you need professional teeth cleaning and dental exams

More interesting dental facts

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A pair of dental braces sitting on top of each other on a table.

Invisalign in Oakland: What You Need to Know Before Starting Treatment

By Sharon L. Albright • February 20, 2025

Have you ever thought about how a perfect smile can transform your confidence and overall appearance? According to a survey by OnePoll and Forbes Health, 72% of Gen Z'ers use social media to compare their smiles. However, with the rise of popular orthodontic solutions like Invisalign, there's no more FOMO when it comes to having a great social-media-worthy smile. Getting started with Invisalign in Oakland can be a significant decision. Learn more about what to expect with Invisalign treatment in Oakland below. Understanding Invisalign Treatment Invisalign is a modern alternative to traditional metal braces. It provides a discreet and comfortable way to straighten your teeth. Rather than utilizing brackets and wires, Invisalign in Oakland employs a series of custom-made, clear aligners that gradually shift your dental structure into the desired position. It's crucial to engage with a professional who specializes in Invisalign. They will craft a tailored plan specifically for your needs. Key Benefits of Invisalign Beyond its invisible appearance, there are several advantages to choosing Invisalign for your teeth alignment. These benefits have made Invisalign treatment in Oakland popular among those wishing to elevate their smile. Comfort The aligners are made of smooth plastic for greater aesthetic appeal. This means less irritation and discomfort compared to traditional braces. Convenience You can easily remove the aligners when eating, brushing, or flossing, which allows you to maintain optimal oral hygiene . Predictable results Using advanced 3D imaging technology, your dentist can show you how your teeth will move and what your smile will look like after treatment. It helps make teeth straightening in Oakland straightforward and understandable. Fewer office visits With Invisalign clear aligners in Oakland, you typically need fewer appointments for adjustments. You'll be provided with multiple sets of aligners at once to change out at pre-determined intervals. The Treatment Process So, how does the treatment process work? The entire process usually spans about 12 to 18 months. However, this can vary depending on the complexity of your case and how long you wear your aligners. Initial Consultation One of the first steps in your Invisalign journey is scheduling a consultation with an Oakland orthodontics office. During this appointment, your dentist will assess your oral health and discuss your goals. This will determine if Invisalign is the right fit for you. Customized Plan 3D images of your teeth will be taken. From there, a personalized treatment plan will be created to guide your aligners' progression. Receiving Aligners You'll receive several sets of aligners. Typically, you'll wear each set for about two weeks before progressing to the next set. For maximum effectiveness, it's important to wear them for the required 20-22 hours per day Regular Check-ups Periodic visits will be scheduled to ensure your treatment is on track and your smile is beautifully on track. Transform Your Smile with Invisalign in Oakland at Sharon L. Albright, D.D.S., Inc. Today Invisalign isn't just about aligning your teeth. It's about enhancing your overall confidence and self-esteem. If you're interested in pursuing Invisalign in Oakland, Sharon L. Albright D.D.S., Inc. can help. The experienced dental team at Sharon Albright D.D.S. specializes in providing high-quality orthodontic treatments tailored to our clients' needs. Are you ready to embark on your journey towards a stunning smile? Contact our office today to make your dream of a perfect smile a reality!