Clean teeth not only have an aesthetic value, they are also important for the health of their owner. In order not to run the risk of an inflammation in the oral cavity or to suffer from caries or periodontitis, it is recommended to regularly have a professional teeth cleaning. During this procedure, the surfaces of all teeth are cleaned and treated in such a way as to make it more difficult for plaque to build up again, and the spaces between the teeth are also cleaned. Although professional teeth cleaning is recommended by the dentist, it is carried out by a trained specialist assistant or by a dental hygienist.
What is professional teeth cleaning?
Professional teeth cleaning is a procedure performed in a dental office by a dentist. Dental cleaning should be performed on average once or twice a year if needed. Professional teeth cleaning is a procedure performed in a dental office by a dentist. The teeth cleaning should be performed as needed on average one to two times a year, as recommended by specialists. However, the frequency of recommended professional teeth cleaning is determined differently from patient to patient. We are talking about teeth cleaning, which is particularly precise. This means that during professional treatment, in contrast to conventional teeth cleaning, every single tooth is thoroughly cleaned. Of course, professional teeth cleaning does not replace daily dental care. Professional teeth cleaning lasts from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the treatment. The cost varies, as it is determined by the dentist (usually between 50 and 100 euros). Normally, health insurance does not cover the cost.
Function, effect, goals and benefits
Professional teeth cleaning is recommended to the patient in the dentist’s office if the doctor considers it necessary. Of course, patients can also decide for themselves how often they want their teeth cleaned. A specialist then determines how many times a year treatment should be performed. Determining the rhythm depends on many factors. Studies show that people who have normal access to good quality tap water are less likely to need professional teeth cleaning. For dentition that is prone to decay or other dental diseases, treatment should be performed every 3 to 6 months. Since an ordinary toothbrush can clean only 60 percent of the tooth surfaces and even an electric toothbrush, despite better cleaning efficiency, is not able to completely clean the interdental spaces, professional teeth cleaning is advisable. The dentist recommends dental cleaning to the patient if necessary, which is by all means not necessary for everyone. Patients who have an increased risk of periodontitis or caries, wear braces, have particularly sensitive gums, bridges, implants or crowns are the first to be offered professional teeth cleaning. Likewise, older people belong to the target group of this form of treatment. To maintain dental health, professional teeth cleaning is often offered. After a thorough examination of the dentition, plaque is first removed. Both an ultrasonic device and special hand instruments can be used for this purpose. After the deposits are removed, they are blasted away with an air-water-salt mixture. The interdental spaces are cleaned next. This is done with dental floss and small brushes. Finally, the teeth are polished to make the surface of the teeth smooth, which makes it harder for plaque to reattach. After the teeth have been polished, a varnish containing fluoride is applied to the teeth to protect the tooth surface. The treatment is performed by dental prophylaxis assistants, dental assistants or dental hygienists.
Risks, side effects and dangers
Professional teeth cleaning is criticized because it is said to attack the teeth. If the patient is taking medication that serves to dilute his blood, he should inform the doctor about it before the treatment. It may happen that during the treatment the gums are injured. If the patient wears a pacemaker or has artificial heart valves, he should also inform the doctor before the professional teeth cleaning so that he can take the right measures.The cost of professional teeth cleaning is not covered by statutory health insurance. Privately insured patients are usually credited for the treatment. Therefore, it is recommended to first get clarification on what is actually performed, as the cost of professional teeth cleaning is based on the amount of work involved.
