Our team wants to see you and your family at least once every six months to have your teeth examined and cleaned. By removing and controlling plaque and tartar buildup you can lower your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. In today’s blog, your Rochester, MN, dentist talks about how to keep your teeth clean.
The Risks of Plaque and Tartar Buildup
We have over 600 types of bacteria in our smile, and many of them are actually beneficial. But a few could lead to trouble, especially the ones that consume the particles of sugar and starch left behind by the foods and drinks we consume. When this happens, layers of plaque accumulate on the teeth, which harden into tartar with time. Brushing and flossing can limit their severity, but only a professional cleaning can remove these layers. Otherwise, your smile is at a greater risk for bad breath, stained teeth, and even cavities, gingivitis, and gum disease. Which is why we want to see you every six months to have these layers removed completely.
Dental Cleanings
A dental cleaning every six months is beneficial for every member of your family, young and old. Our hygienist will gently remove the layers of plaque and tartar by using an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual pick. We thoroughly break up and remove all the buildup for the teeth. We then polish the smile to offer a brighter appearance and a smoother finish. Undergoing these every few months prevents major plaque and tartar buildup, and helps safeguard your smile from the complications associated with this bacterial byproduct. But what if you haven’t seen us in years, and the buildup is severe enough to cause sore, red, and bleeding gums? You may need a scaling and root planing instead!
Deep Cleanings
Also known as a scaling and root planing, this is a more involved preventive procedure designed to either reverse gingivitis or manage gum disease to prevent the later stages, which could cause tooth loss. Using the same tools and technology, we remove buildup from the surfaces of the teeth, but we also smooth the roots and remove buildup there as well. This could take one vest, or up to four. The number depends on the severity of your plaque and tartar. Again, we polish the teeth for a smoother finish.
If you have any questions about protecting your smile, then contact our team today.
TALK TO YOUR ROCHESTER, MN DENTIST ABOUT SAFEGUARDING YOUR SMILE
Our team is ready to help you enjoy good oral health with a preventive approach. If you would like to find more about protecting your oral health, or if you wish to book an appointment at our location, call Greenview Cosmetic And Family Dentistry in Rochester, MN at (507) 281-3659.
