Every six months, the American Dental Association suggests people of all ages undergo a routine preventive visit. As part of this visit, we not only examine your smile, but we clean your teeth as well. In today’s blog, your Dallas, TX, dentist looks at what happens during a cleaning, and why these visits are so crucial for kids and adults alike.
The Cleaning Process
A dental cleaning removes plaque and tartar from the teeth. Plaque forms when bacteria break down stray food particles, a process that coats the teeth in this sticky buildup. Over time, plaque can calcify into tartar and also weaken tooth enamel, increasing the risk of tooth decay. The buildup also irritates and inflames gum tissue, boosting the overall risk of periodontal disease. We use an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual tool to completely remove all plaque from the teeth. We then polish the tooth. Patients leave with a brighter smile and fresher breath, as well as improved overall oral health.
Benefits for Kids and Adults
For children, a routine visit to have their teeth cleaned removes plaque and limits the risk of cavities and gingivitis. In addition, these regular visits can help reduce dental anxiety and instill good oral hygiene habits, helping your children make better decisions about their oral health as they grow up. For adults, the process helps control the risk of cavities and gum disease. If you do have serious oral health issues, such as periodontal problems, we may suggest a visit every three to four months instead of every six months.
The Scaling and Root Planing
What if you have gingivitis or the early stages of gum disease? This could include sore or red gums, as well as bleeding when you brush and floss. If so, then we can reverse gingivitis or manage gum disease with a deep cleaning. More extensive than a regular one, this process involves removing plaque and tartar with an ultrasonic scaling device and also smoothing the root surfaces as well. Depending on the extent of your buildup, this could take just one visit or up to four. Afterward, routine visits can help manage buildup and control the disease, preventing the advanced stages linked to adult tooth loss. If you have any questions about these routine visits, or if you would like to schedule one for you and your family, then please contact our team today to learn more.
Ready to Have Your Smile Cleaned?
Be sure to contact our team to schedule a cleaning and start 2020 with a healthier and brighter smile. Routine care is essential for avoiding serious oral health concerns while also enjoying a more attractive smile in the process. For more information on our preventive treatment options, schedule an appointment by calling Gentle Smiles in Dallas, TX, today at 972-329-7645 (972-329-SMILE).
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