Over time, plaque forms on our smiles and could harden into tartar, increasing the risk of serious oral health issues. While brushing and flossing limit plaque, you need to have a cleaning to remove the harmful buildup completely. In today’s blog, your Garland, TX, dentist talks about the benefits of removing plaque with a professional dental cleaning.
The Causes of Buildup
Over time, the bits of food and drink left behind on our smile could be broken down and consumed by harmful oral bacteria, especially the particles of sugar and starch. This process causes the levels of oral acidity to rise, and also coat the teeth in plaque buildup. A bacterial buildup that could harden into tartar with time, this is impossible to remove with brushing and flossing alone. The buildup weakens and erodes enamel to cause tooth decay, and could inflame gum tissues to cause gingivitis and periodontal disease. The buildup is also linked to bad breath and even dental discoloration.
The Cleaning Process
People ages two and older should see us every six months to have their teeth cleaned. The process involves using an ultrasonic scaling device to remove buildup from the teeth in a matter of minutes. We then polish the teeth for a brighter appearance and smoother finish. This helps keep your smile healthy and bright. If you have high risk factors for gum disease and exhibit sore, red, and bleeding gums, then we have a deep cleaning in which we move plaque from the teeth and the roots. This is more involved and could take more than one visit, but allows your periodontal issues to be managed properly with regular cleanings every three to four months, so the risk of worsening symptoms and tooth loss decreases.
Care at Home
While brushing and flossing can’t remove plaque, regular care at home could limit how much can accumulate on the teeth in between your six-month visits. You should brush in the morning and again at night, and each session should take two minutes and involve the use of a fluoride toothpaste. This is recommended for kids and adults alike. We also urge people to floss every evening too, reaching what is beyond a toothbrush’s bristles. If you have any questions about how we care for your smile, then contact our team today to learn more. A visit now could use your remaining dental insurance benefits, and also let us treat your smile before your schedule becomes too busy!
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT KEEPING YOUR TEETH CLEAN?
If you’re ready to have your smile thoroughly cleaned, then please schedule a consultation today by contacting Mai Dentistry in Garland, TX at (972)-530-0552. You can also find our practice at 6850 N Shiloh Rd, Suite C Garland, TX 75044.
