Even if you're rigorous about caring for your teeth, plaque and tartar are still quite common, so don't skip those routine dental cleanings. Conventional wisdom says that two dental cleanings per year are the standard for maintaining a beautiful and healthy smile. However, recent studies have shown that two annual cleanings are not necessarily the best plan for everyone. Whether it's due to genetics or lifestyle habits, some patients are more at risk for oral health problems than others.
If you are considered a “high-risk dental patient,” you may need to visit the dentist more often for a dental cleaning or review. You may need to improve your oral hygiene practices to keep up with the health of your smile. Periodontal maintenance cleanings are specific so that the dentist can use clinical time to help maintain the therapy that was provided during active treatment. Periodontal disease is multifaceted because many factors (personal diet, sleep, body chemistry, and overall health) affect the effectiveness of the non-surgical root scraping procedure in controlling the disease.
If you have been thinking about getting your teeth cleaned, you may be wondering if you really need it. Dental cleanings are designed to remove plaque buildup and bacteria from your mouth. But there is a lot of controversy over whether they are even necessary. Here are a few things you should know.
Plaque buildup
Plaque is a sticky substance that can build up on your teeth. When it forms, it can lead to gum disease and cavities. It can also cause bad breath. The best way to prevent plaque is to practice good oral hygiene.
To prevent plaque, you should brush your teeth twice a day and floss once a day. You should also limit sugary foods and drinks. In addition, you should drink plenty of water after meals.
Plaque is a sticky biofilm that consists of bacteria and minerals that collect on the surface of your teeth. To prevent plaque, you should brush your teeth after meals, use a mouthwash that kills plaque-causing bacteria and visit your dentist regularly for a checkup.
Bad breath
If you are experiencing halitosis, you may be looking for ways to get rid of the problem. The first step is to find out what is causing it. Then, you can take the appropriate steps to cure the condition.
Bad breath can be caused by gum disease, poor dental hygiene, a medical condition, or an infection in the throat. You can learn more about these causes by talking to your dentist or a hygienist.
Your dentist will be able to help you find the root cause of your halitosis. You might even be able to treat the issue at home.
If you do not want to go to the dentist, you can use an over-the-counter mouthwash. This will mask the smell of the odor-causing bacteria. You will also need to make sure you brush your teeth and tongue regularly.
Gum disease
If you want to keep your teeth healthy, you need to brush and floss daily. However, you should also seek professional dental cleanings. This way, your dentist can spot and remove plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and gums.
This practice is designed to stop the progression of gum disease. This type of cleaning can take several visits. Some patients may need up to four visits to have the tartar removed from their mouths.
Whether you need a deep cleaning or a routine cleaning, it is important to make an appointment with your dentist. This will help ensure the longevity of your teeth.
Cancer
In the world of dental cleanings, it's not all about scraping away plaque and whitening your teeth. It's also about having your teeth examined by a dentist, checking for signs of oral cancer, and perhaps most importantly, maintaining the health of your gums.
In general, you should get your teeth cleaned once a year, though some people require more frequent visits. It's also recommended that you floss your teeth at least once a day. While it's true that you can brush and floss your own teeth, your hygienist will likely be able to make your life easier by pointing out areas of concern and recommending a course of action.
X-rays
Dental X-rays are necessary because they can help your dentist identify any dental problems. They are easy, painless, and quick. They can also reveal areas of your mouth that aren't visible to the naked eye.
A number of factors determine how often you'll need to get your dental x-rays. Among the factors are your age, your oral health, and your risk for disease.
When you're at a dental office for the first time, you might be asked to take a few X-rays. This will allow you and your dentist to compare how your teeth are changing over time.
A full series of X-rays is recommended for patients with extensive decay or other serious dental disease. For those without recent dental problems, you might only need X-rays every few years.
Fluoride treatments
A fluoride treatment is a dental cleaning that can be performed in a short amount of time. It can strengthen teeth and help prevent cavities. It is a safe, cost-effective way to maintain healthy teeth.
Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in plaque produce acids. When the acid attacks the enamel on the teeth, it damages the structure of the teeth. It can also cause sensitivity.
There are many factors that can increase the risk of cavities. For example, gum recession can expose the root surface of a tooth, which is more susceptible to decay. Additionally, people who have a history of frequent cavities are at higher risk.
The difficulty with periodontal disease is that it can be controlled but not cured. Frequent and consistent periodontal maintenance cleanings are the best option for maintaining healthier gum tissue. If the gum tissue is kept as healthy as possible, the supporting tissues (crown and roots of the tooth) will also be maintained. Because the most effective method of managing periodontal disease is the need for more frequent periodontal maintenance dental cleanings, your dentist will recommend the most proven method to help maintain the health of your teeth and gums.
As consistent and frequent care is provided, the patient should notice that the result will not only be a healthier and more attractive smile, but the benefits will extend toward improved overall health. A dental cleaning removes bacteria that cause plaque, but it begins to recolonize in the mouth within 24 to 48 hours. If you have a professional dental cleaning twice a year, you are less likely to experience a heavy buildup of plaque and tartar that could seriously affect your oral health. Other patients will hardly experience dental problems, which means they will likely need to clean their teeth less frequently.
We also offer dental sealants for children and adults, which can help reduce the risk of tooth decay, and teeth whitening and dental restoration services that can help you feel good about the appearance of your smile.
