As part of our approach to preventive dentistry, our team wants to remove harmful layers of plaque and tartar every few months. A simple cleaning every six months can keep smiles strong! But what if you need more than a traditional one, but instead require a deep cleaning? In today’s blog, your Ankeny, IA, dentist talks about which kind of cleaning you may need and why!
The Dangers of Your Plaque Buildup
When we eat and drink items high in sugar and starch, this could leave behind particles that cling to the teeth and become trapped between them. As harmful bacteria break down and consume these particles, this elevates oral acidity and coats the teeth in a sticky layer of plaque. This can be difficult to remove with brushing and flossing alone, and hardens with time in tartar. The buildup can cause bad breath and even make teeth stains more visible. But the buildup also weakens and erodes the outer enamel to cause cavities, and irritate the gums, causing gingivitis and even gum disease. Which is why you need a professional cleaning to remove these layers completely every few months!
Dental Cleanings
The process involves our team using an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual pick to remove the plaque and tartar from your teeth. The scaling device emits gentle vibrations that help break up and remove buildup. We then use the pick to target and remove the more stubborn portions of tartar. We complete the process by polishing your teeth. This last step brightens your smile but also makes it more difficult for plaque and tartar to accumulate in major layers before your next appointment in six months. The process only takes a few minutes and is helpful for patients of all ages, including kids and adults. At home, you can help limit the severity of buildup with daily brushing and flossing, and by cutting back on the amount of sugar and starch in your diet.
Scaling and Root Planing
If you already have gingivitis or the presence of gum disease in the early stages, we could offer a deep cleaning. Also known as a scaling and root planing, this involves removing the layers from both the teeth and the exposed portions of your roots. This is more involved and could take one visit or multiple ones, depending on the severity of your buildup. We will numb your smile ahead of time, and again, complete the process by polishing your teeth. If you have any questions about our preventive visits, or if you need to schedule one, then contact our team today to learn more.
Dental Impressions Talks About Preventive Dentistry
Our team wants to offer a strong and healthy smile by removing your handful plaque and tartar buildup. To schedule your next preventive appointment with our team, then call Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA today at (515) 965-0230.
