Routine cleanings are an important part of keeping your teeth healthy. They help reduce plaque and tartar, fight cavities, and catch big problems early.
If you or your loved ones are nervous about incorporating regular teeth cleanings into your dental routine, don’t worry–Chiu Dental is here to help. In this post, we’ll answer all your questions about teeth cleaning. Keep reading to learn more about the process, how often you should get your teeth cleaned, and more.
How Often Should I Get My Teeth Cleaned?
At Chiu Dental, we recommend that most patients get their teeth professionally cleaned at least once a year. However, some patients should get their teeth cleaned more regularly, especially if they are at risk of gum disease or tooth loss.
If you need to get your teeth cleaned more regularly, one of our dental professionals will discuss your needs with you so that you can stay informed.
What Happens During a Teeth Cleaning?
Typically, teeth cleanings follow these steps:
- Removing plaque and tartar buildup along your gumline. This can be done using a mechanical scaling machine or with manual hand scaling done by our experienced hygienists.
- Identify any potential problems. Our experienced team will examine your teeth for cavities, cancers, and more.
- Apply fluoride treatment. This helps fight cavities while protecting your teeth from future cavities.
Do Teeth Cleanings Hurt?
Generally speaking, teeth cleanings do not hurt. However, you might experience mild discomfort during your appointment if you have sensitive teeth or gums.
If you are very sensitive to teeth cleanings, talk to your hygienists, and they will be happy to offer accommodations to make your experience more enjoyable. For example, if you find the electric cleaning machines too intense or harsh, we can primarily use manual hand scaling during your appointment.
At What Age Can I Start Getting My Kid’s Teeth Cleaned?
At Chiu Dental, we accept patients starting at 2 years old. By taking your kids to dental cleanings at an early age, you can ensure that they get used to the sounds and environments of a dentist’s office in a positive way. Our team will do everything possible to ensure your child has a positive experience. If you have further questions about booking a teeth cleaning appointment for your child, call our office to learn more.
Does the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) Cover My Teeth Cleaning?
Started in 2023, the CDCP is a federal program that helps give quality dental care to Canadians. Currently, you are eligible for the CDCP if you are in one of the following groups:
- Canadians who hold a Disability Tax Credit certificate
- Children under the age of 18
- People aged 65 and over
To participate in the CDCP, you must apply for coverage through the Government of Canada. Then, once approved, you can bring your card to Chiu Dental, and we’ll walk you through how much of our fees this program covers. For more information, call our office.
Book Your Teeth Cleaning Today
If you are looking to get your teeth cleaned and live in the Kitchener Waterloo area, Chiu Dental is ready to protect your oral health. We love building long-term relationships with our clients, and we can help you develop a plan to keep your teeth and gums healthy for years to come.
Have a question that we didn’t answer? Reach out to our friendly and experienced team.