Dental Cleanings

Keeping your teeth clean is an important part of keeping your smile healthy. At Smiles Family Dental, our goal is to give you the best chance at your healthiest smile. Not only do we provide professional dental cleanings in Arlington, Texas, but we also provide patient education so your smile looks and feels great! Contact us at 817-277-1971 to set up your appointment with our experienced dentists, Dr. Angelie Zamora and Dr. Britany Jenkins.

What Happens at a Professional Teeth Cleaning?

You probably have an idea, and you have probably been to the dentist before. But what exactly happens at your tooth cleaning and why?

Having your teeth professionally cleaned by a dentist greatly reduces your risk of gum disease and helps prevent future permanent tooth loss. We utilize several tools to ensure your teeth are their cleanest:

• Mirrors. Our small dental mirrors help us see all the nooks and crannies of your teeth. Mirrors are especially helpful in spotting calcium deposits, looking at your back teeth and checking the roof of your mouth.
• Scalers. Dental scalers are the small, precise tools used to scrape plaque and tartar off your teeth. Water is often used with this tool to keep it cool.
• Polishers. Dental polishers are like small powered toothbrushes that smooth out the surfaces of your teeth. Smoother tooth surfaces make it easier for the gums to stay healthy.

We utilize each tool we have to give you the most efficient and comfortable care possible. You will leave our office with that smoothly polished feeling of a freshly cleaned mouth.

Attention to Detail at Your Arlington Dentist

When you come to our office for a professional teeth cleaning, you will receive personalized service. Each patient is different, and our goal is to tailor your care to your needs. If you have sensitive teeth, pain or symptoms that do not seem normal, please let us know.

Dental Hygiene

Tips for Great Tooth Brushing

Brushing your teeth is important, and using proper brushing techniques can give you that much more of an advantage. Brush your teeth the right way by:

• Using a toothbrush with soft bristles.
• Brush each part of your tooth: the inside, outside and all over.
• Take some time to get into all the spaces.
• Use gentle motions to brush your tongue and gums.
• Brush for at least two minutes.
• Use toothpaste that displays the ADA® seal on the label.
• Clean your toothbrush with hot water.

Brush at least twice a day to keep food particles away from your teeth. Food particles can get trapped and cause decay and plaque.

Flossing the Right Way

Floss is important for cleaning the food particles out between your teeth, where it is easy for food to get trapped. We recommend the following steps:

• Take about 18 inches of floss.
• Take the floss around your middle fingers and wrap around both until you have 1 to 2 inches left.
• Tighten the floss and gently push between each tooth. You can also floss below the gumline.

Regular brushing and flossing can both help prevent gum disease, cavities and infection. When you come to our office, we can demonstrate cleaning methods for you and your family members.

Additional Ideas for an Ultra Clean Mouth

Many people like to utilize other dental techniques and tools for a healthy mouth. You might try one or more of the following:

• Mouthwash. Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes and try to find one with fluoride.
• Tongue scraper. Many toothbrushes now come with a tongue scraper on the back. Use this to give your tongue a good scrub.
• Replace your toothbrush every three months. Just like your clothes wear out, your toothbrush also wears out after three to four months. Some toothbrushes have indicators built into the bristles that can remind you when to replace your brush.

We care about your oral health. If you have any questions about how to take care of your teeth, please let us know!

Teeth Cleaning During Pregnancy

Pregnancy changes your body, and knowing a few simple tips can help you keep your mouth and teeth healthy. We recommend:

• Telling your dentist. We understand that revealing a pregnancy can be tricky. However, you should let your doctor and dentist know as soon as possible. It is important to receive the right treatment during your pregnancy.
• Scheduling your appointments at the right times. If possible, come in before you conceive. The first trimester is not a great time to visit the dentist because of how much the fetus is developing. Schedule your next appointment or any needed treatments during your second or third trimesters.
• Keep good brushing and flossing habits. A healthy mouth can help prevent pregnancy-term birth. Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush and be gentle when flossing your gums.

Pregnant women are more at risk for gum disease, so it is especially important to keep up with dental cleanings and good dental hygiene during this exciting time. If you have any more questions about dental care during pregnancy, please let us know!

Teaching Your Kids Good Dental Hygiene

Convincing toddlers to brush their teeth can be a challenge. Fortunately, children often learn by watching their parents. Brush with your child and demonstrate proper brushing technique.

Use a small, pea-sized amount of children’s toothpaste and assist your child with both brushing and flossing. As your child starts to become more independent, allow them to brush on their own while assisting with techniques.

Ready for a Friendly Dental Experience? Give Us a Call!

Come meet our friendly team and find out more about dental hygiene. Call our office today to schedule your appointment. We look forward to meeting you!