Over time, plaque can coat your teeth and eventually harden into tartar. Without action, this could lead to a higher risk of gum disease, as well as bad breath and teeth stains. But we can help with a simple preventive treatment. In today’s blog, Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA, talks about our regular cleanings!
The Impact of Plaque and Tartar Buildup
The sugar and starch in the foods and drinks we consume often leaves behind particles on or between the teeth. When bacteria consume these particles, this creates plaque buildup, a sticky layer that coats your teeth. Over time, the layers of plaque can increase in severity and eventually harden into tartar. These layers not only make teeth stains more visible and cause bad breath, but they can weaken and erode outer enamel to cause cavities. The same buildup can also irritate and inflame the gums to cause periodontal disease. While brushing and flossing can help limit buildup, the only way to completely remove these harmful layers with a dental cleaning every six months!
The Cleaning Process
We will use an ultrasonic scaling device, which emits gentle vibrations, to knock loose and remove the layers of plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth. The process only takes a short time. We then follow this with a manual pick to help remove any stubborn portions of plaque and tartar clinging to the teeth. The final step is to polish the teeth to make it more difficult for plaque and tartar to accumulate before you see us again for care. At home, you can further protect your smile by brushing and flossing daily, along with limiting how much sugar is in your diet.
What About a Deep Cleaning?
We also have a procedure known as a scaling and root planing, sometimes called a deep cleaning. If you have periodontal disease, this can make the disease manageable with a preventive approach moving forward. Using the same tools, we remove buildup from the teeth and the exposed roots, and from under the gums. The process is more involved, so we may numb your smile and this could take more than one visit to complete. We again polish the teeth afterward, and we may suggest traditional cleanings every three to four months to control buildup and inflammation.
If you have any questions about how we protect your smile, or if you are ready to schedule a visit for you and your family, then reach out to our office today.
Dental Impressions Helps Prevent Poor Oral Health
We want to help you avoid the risk of cavities and periodontal concerns. To schedule an appointment and protect your teeth and gums, then call Dental Impressions in Ankeny, IA today at (515) 965-0230.
