Our last blog explained why a simple exam is essential for maintaining good oral health. In today’s blog, your Garland, TX, dentist would like to talk about another essential part of your visit: the cleaning. Removing plaque and tartar not only fights bad breath and teeth stains, but could be key to avoiding the onset of everything from cavities to periodontal disease.
The Causes of Plaque and Tartar
How does this harmful buildup develop? Well, when we eat and drink particles become left behind, stuck on and between our teeth. Harmful oral bacteria will then break down these particles and consume them, especially the sugary and starchy ones. In the process, oral acidity levels rise and the teeth become coated in plaque and tartar buildup. The buildup cannot be removed with brushing and flossing alone, and over time, could increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease by weakening outer enamel and inflaming gum tissues. The buildup is also linked to bad breath and teeth stains.
The Cleaning Process
To control the buildup and protect your smile, we suggest a cleaning every six months. The procedure is the only way to completely remove all plaque and tartar. We use an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual tool to accomplish this in only a few minutes. After we remove the buildup, we then polish the smile thoroughly. If you have the warning signs of gingivitis and gum disease, we could suggest a deep cleaning, known as a scaling and root planing, to remove buildup from the teeth and the roots too.
Keeping Smiles Clean at Home
In between these office visits, you can take steps to limit how much buildup accumulates from home. First, try to cut back on the consumption of sugary foods and drinks. Next, make time to brush your teeth for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste in the morning and then again before bed. You also need to floss every evening to reach and remove the bits of food beyond the reach of your toothbrush’s bristles. These actions help keep your smile healthy and strong, and also prevent discoloration and bad breath. If you have any questions about our cleanings, or if you would like to schedule a visit for one, then please contact our team today. We would love to help you and your family enjoy a strong and healthy smile all summer long!
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT PREVENTIVE DENTISTRY?
Our team wants to help you maintain good oral health with routine visits. To learn more about examining and cleaning your teeth, then schedule a consultation by calling Mai Dentistry in Garland, TX, today at 972-530-0552. For our patients who don’t speak English, our office is fluent in both Spanish and Vietnamese.
