Many people don't take teeth cleaning seriously until they experience gum or periodontal diseases. However, you should go for regular dental checkups to determine whether you need a cleaning procedure or not. Typically, cleanings are necessary if you have pockets of four millimeters or more. The scaling process gets rid of plaque and treats gum disease. Here are some myths about teeth cleaning.

Teeth Cleaning Involves Removing the Enamel

A common misconception about teeth cleaning is that it involves the removal of the tooth's enamel. Teeth cleaning is done using an ultrasonic scaler. The scaling process helps minimize hard calculus from the external parts of the tooth. This doesn't damage the enamel or any oral tissue.

Teeth Cleaning Is Necessary If You Experience Dental Issues

There are some dental issues that you cannot detect. Your teeth may look good on the outside, but problems may be hidden beneath the surface. This is why dentists perform X-rays and thorough tests during regular cleaning sessions to evaluate your mouth's health.

For example, you may notice decay and gum disease during the advanced stages. Early warning signs include bleeding, puffiness, and soreness of the gums. Regular checkups are the only way to determine whether or not you should undergo teeth cleaning.

Teeth Cleaning Whitens Your Teeth

Teeth cleaning can eliminate extrinsic tooth stains caused by drinking tea or smoking. However, teeth cleaning cannot change the color of your teeth. Teeth cleaning isn't bleaching. It's primarily involved with removing plaque and preventing gum disease. Therefore, if your teeth are yellow or pale, this procedure will not work because it cannot change the color of your teeth.

Teeth Cleaning Will Weaken Your Teeth

Many people believe that teeth cleaning weakens teeth. The truth is that scaling removes elements on the teeth that could cause gum disease. After removing these elements, people may feel like their teeth are weak and loose. This is because the teeth were already weakened by plaque and calculus. Observing proper oral health habits like brushing and flossing will restore the strength of your gums and teeth.

Teeth Cleaning Causes Sensitivity

Teeth cleaning is a non-invasive procedure for removing plaque and calculus. The treatment involves spotting areas of the teeth that were once covered with tartar. Since removing tartar exposes your tooth roots, you can expect to experience some sensitivity for a few days. Ask your dentist to recommend a sensitivity toothpaste that will help you deal with painful sensitivity.

In Closing

Popular belief is that your teeth are in perfect condition as long as you brush and floss daily. Maintaining oral health involves visiting your dentist for a checkup at least twice a year. Many oral conditions become apparent when they have already developed and caused minor damage. Therefore, make sure you go for regular dental checkups to determine whether or not you should go through teeth cleaning procedures.

For more info, reach out to local dentists.