When you have a dental cleaning, we do what routine brushing and flossing cannot: we remove all plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your smile. To do so with accuracy and precision, and to help reverse periodontal health issues, we use an ultrasonic scaling device. In today’s blog, your Houston, TX, dentist explains how we perform this procedure.
The Ultrasonic Device
The device we use is hand-held and easy to maneuver. Employing sound waves, the ultrasonic device breaks up and removes plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth. The process is much more comfortable, faster, and more effective as well, removing all bacterial byproducts with accuracy and precision. The process also removes harmful buildup along the gum line without causing trauma to the gingival tissues.
The Cleaning Process
Plaque buildup forms as bacteria breaks down food particles caught on or between the teeth. Unless addressed, the buildup could begin to weaken and erode enamel, causing cavities to form. The buildup also irritates and inflames the gum tissues, causing gingivitis and over time, the onset of gum disease. To avoid painful decay or infections, or periodontal issues that could lead to tooth loss, we need to remove the buildup. Using the ultrasonic scaling device, we gently break up the plaque and tartar. Afterward, we thoroughly polish the teeth to help ensure a smoother finish and a brighter appearance. We suggest one of these visits every six months, as issues like gum disease and tooth decay take months to form, so a routine visit helps interrupt this cycle and keep your smile strong, healthy, and beautiful.
Reversing Gingivitis and Managing Gum Disease
There is also a deep cleaning, in which we not only use the device to remove buildup from the teeth, but the roots as well. The ultrasonic device does so with comfort and ease, preventing damage to the gum tissues. The procedure is more involved and recommend for those with gingivitis or the early stages of gum disease. We remove all plaque and tartar in one to four visits, depending on the extent of the buildup. The process helps reverse gingivitis or could be used to reduce the severity of gum disease, enabling us to better manage it with regular cleanings every three to four months. If you have any question, or if you would like to schedule a visit for you or a member of your family, then contact our team today.
Do You Need a Cleaning Soon?
Our team wants to help you avoid issues like gum disease and decayed teeth by removing plaque and tartar on a regular basis. For more information on the process of keeping teeth clean and healthy with preventive care, then contact Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry in Houston, TX today by calling 281-974-4494.
