We explained last week how a checkup and an oral cancer screening are essential for keeping smiles strong and healthy. In today’s blog, your Houston, TX, dentist wants to keep this discussion going by looking at cleaning. With routine cleaning appointments and scaling and root planings, we fight plaque buildup to prevent cavities, gum disease, and more.
The Risks Associated with Plaque Buildup
Plaque is a bacterial layer that coats the teeth once bacteria begin to break down particles left behind by the foods and drinks we consume. The buildup hardens over time into tartar, and is impossible to remove with brushing and flossing alone. These layers leads to bad breath, stained teeth, weakened enamel, and inflamed gum tissues, boosting the risk of serious complications like tooth decay and even gum disease. While brushing and flossing could limit the amount of plaque accumulating on your smile, only a cleaning can remove the buildup completely.
Six-Month Visits
We want to see you and your family twice a year to have their teeth cleaned. The procedure benefits everyone, from toddlers and kids to teens and adults. Having one every six months means a chance to help remove plaque before a full-on cavity forms or periodontal disease develops. The procedure involves using an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual tool to break up and remove all buildup. We then polish your smile to ensure a brighter appearance. The procedure only takes a few minutes, and helps you enjoy a more attractive smile, fresher breath, and a lowered risk of poor oral health.
Scaling and Root Planing
However, if you already have the symptoms of gingivitis or the early stages of gum disease, which could include sore, red gums that bleed easily, then you may need more than a simple dental cleaning. With a scaling and root planing, we have the chance to reverse gingivitis or start managing gum disease to prevent periodontitis, the stage associated with adult tooth loss. The procedure again uses an ultrasonic scaling device and manual tool, but this time we remove buildup from the roots as well. The procedure may take one visit, or could take up to four, depending on how severe your buildup is. We then polish your smile and may recommend a routine cleaning every three to four months afterward. If you have any questions about how we remove buildup and protect the health and beauty of your smile, then contact our team today to learn more.
Do You Have Questions About Protecting Oral Health?
Along with your exam, we also want to take time to remove your plaque and tartar. For more information on keeping smiles clean and healthy, then contact Healthy Smiles Family Dentistry in Houston, TX today by calling 281-974-4494.
