What You Should Know About Dental Cleaning
Our last blog was about dental checkups and why people of all ages need a dental exam twice a year. Likewise, in the same visit people of all ages benefit from a dental cleaning, which removes harmful buildup from the smile. In today’s blog, your Cleveland, TX, dentist talks about the importance of a routine dental cleaning.
The Risks of Plaque Buildup
Plaque buildup is a bacterial byproduct that accumulates on the teeth as harmful oral bacteria break down particles of sugar and starch left behind by the foods and drinks we consume. The buildup hardens into tartar with time and can make stains more visible and lead to bad breath. But the buildup also weakens and erodes the outer enamel and could inflame gingival tissues, leading to an increased risk of tooth decay, dental infection, gingivitis, and even gum disease. Which is why removing the buildup with a cleaning is so important!
Keeping Your Teeth Clean
Brushing and flossing your teeth each day is so valuable for limiting plaque buildup, but only a professional cleaning can completely remove the buildup. The process is a simple and short one. We use an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual tool to gently and thoroughly remove all plaque and tartar from the outside of the tooth. Once we finish this process, we will then polish the teeth thoroughly. This leaves them brighter and with a smoother feel. This helps people of all ages, and should happen twice a year for kids and adults alike!
Scaling and Root Planing
But what about a deep cleaning, also known as a scaling and root planing. This is recommended for smiles with gingivitis or the early stages of periodontal disease, in which the gums look red, feel sore, and bleed easily. The procedure removes the buildup from the teeth and the roots, and can take one to four visits to complete, all depending on how severe the accumulation is. This reverses gingivitis and can be the first step in managing gum disease and preventing tooth loss. Regular cleanings every three to four months can help afterward. If you have any questions about how we protect smiles with our preventive visits, or about scheduling a visit with our team, then contact our team today to learn more.
Do You Have Questions About Our Six-Month Visits?
We would love to help you and your family on your journey to healthier smiles with preventive care. If you have any questions about how we help maintain good oral health, or if you would like to schedule a consultation today, please contact Cleveland Family Dentistry in Cleveland, TX, at (281) 592-1234. You can also find our practice at 205 E. Houston St. Cleveland, TX 77327.