In our last blog, we took a closer look at checkups and why kids and adults both benefit from them. In today’s blog, we would like to focus on another vital preventive treatment: dental cleanings. Our routine cleanings and scaling and root planings can improve the health of your smile and stave off gum disease. When should you see your El Paso, TX, dentist to have your teeth cleaned?
Dental Cleanings
Did you know that when food particles become trapped between the teeth, bacteria break them down for fuel? Now only does this elevate levels of oral acidity, but the bacteria begin coating the teeth in a sticky layer of plaque buildup, which can weaken tooth enamel and even inflame gum tissue. Without removal, the layers of plaque could lead to cavities and gum disease. To help prevent these serious complications, we offer professional cleanings. Every six months, you should see us so we can examine your smile and then clean them, which involves using an ultrasonic scaler and manual tool to thoroughly remove all plaque from the surface of the teeth. We then polish the teeth. The procedure leaves them with a smooth finish, as well as a brighter appearance.
Scaling and Root Planing
What if you already experience the warning signs of gingivitis or the early stages of gum disease, such as red, sore gums that bleed easily when brushing or flossing? If so, you may benefit from a periodontal treatment, such as a scaling and root planing. Using an ultrasonic scaling device, we remove the buildup from both the surface of the teeth and the roots. The procedure may take between one and four visits, depending on the extent of your buildup. Afterward, we polish the teeth. If you have already developed gum disease, then routine cleanings should happen every three to four months so we can successfully manage the disease and prevent periodontitis, which is linked to adult tooth loss.
Routine Homecare
Along with having your teeth cleaned, you also need to care for your smile from home, which helps control how much plaque develops in between your visits. You need to brush your teeth for two minutes when you first wake up, using a toothpaste with fluoride and preferably, a toothbrush with soft bristles. At night, you should again brush your teeth and also floss thoroughly in between each tooth.
TALK TO SUNNY SMILES IN EL PASO ABOUT CLEANINGS
At Sunny Smiles in El Paso, TX, our team provides preventive care to help you and your family enjoy optimal oral health. If you have questions about our services, or if you want to set up an appointment, you can reach our East El Paso dental practice on 10039 Dyer St., at 915-859-7000!