A dental cleaning may seem minor, especially if you brush and floss, but you still need to undergo one at least once every six months. Otherwise, plaque buildup could lead to an increased risk of tooth decay and even gum disease! In today’s blog, your Ankeny, IA, dentist talks about the importance of a dental cleaning.
The Reasons for Removing Plaque and Tartar
When you eat/drink items high in sugar and starch, this leaves particles behind, trapped on or between the teeth. As harmful oral bacteria break down these particles, consuming them and creating a sticky layer of plaque that coats the teeth. Over time, this will harden into tartar. These layers will weaken and erode the outer enamel, exposing the sensitive inner dentin and allowing cavities to form. The same buildup also inflames the gum tissues, so the risk of gingivitis and gum disease is elevated as well. Removing the buildup protects your oral health, and fights bad breath and teeth stains in the process!
The Procedure
A dental cleaning is a great way to protect your oral health by removing all plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth. The process only takes a few minutes, and is done using an ultrasonic scaling device to break up the buildup with gentle vibrations. We also employ a pick for the tougher deposits. We remove these layers from the surfaces of the teeth and form along the gum line. Our team then polishes the teeth thoroughly to brighten them and to also make it more difficult for plaque and tartar to adhere to the surfaces before your next cleaning visit. These visits are great for kids two and older and everyone else too, so if you haven’t scheduled a visit do so soon!
Scaling and Root Planing
If you have warning signs of gingivitis or the early stages of periodontal disease, then you may experience sore, red gums that bleed easily. At this stage, we could help with a deep cleaning. We use the ultrasonic scaling device to remove buildup from the teeth and from the surfaces of the rotos too, and the deposits from beneath the gums. The process is more involved and could take one visit or up to four. We offer a local numbing agent to help in the process, so you’re comfortable. We again polish your smile afterward. This could reverse gingivitis or make your gum disease manageable with traditional dental cleanings.
Talk To Your Ankeny, IA, Dentist About Preventive Dental Care
Our team wants to help you and your family enjoy better oral health with preventive treatments! If you would like to learn more about our thorough preventive treatment options, or any other service we offer, please contact your Ankeny, IA, dentist’s office at (515) 207-6182 to schedule a visit.
