Over time, plaque buildup can accumulate on our teeth and lead to serious problems for our smile’s health and appearance. However, in order to help protect your smile from gum disease and other complications caused by this buildup, we may suggest a dental cleaning. Find out how a cleaning can help protect smiles in El Paso, TX, from the onset of periodontal disease!
Poor Oral Hygiene and Gum Disease
As we mentioned above, when plaque buildup forms on our smiles, serious problems follow. Plaque develops when harmful bacteria break down and consume food particles left on or between the teeth. The buildup then weakens and erodes tooth enamel over time, and can inflame the gum tissue. The inflammation, known as gingivitis, can cause the gums to feel sore, look redder than usual, or bleed easily. When the gums pull away from the teeth and form pockets, periodontal disease occurs. In order to prevent the onset of gum disease, better oral hygiene practices need to be implemented to prevent serious buildup and gum inflammation.
The Dental Cleaning Process
We recommend patients of all ages see us every six months to have their teeth cleaned. A dental cleaning is the only way to completely remove plaque and tartar (calcified plaque) from the surface of the teeth. The procedure involves the use of an ultrasonic scaling device and manual tool to breakup and remove the buildup. We then polish the teeth for an attractive appearance. The procedure only takes one visit to complete, and helps control inflammation and prevent periodontal disease. If you already have the disease, and severe buildup, then we may perform a scaling and root planing to remove the plaque from the teeth and roots, and help the manage the issue to avoid tooth loss and other complications related to untreated periodontal disease.
Keeping Teeth Clean at Home
While routine six-month visits are essential for preventing periodontal problems, you also need to care for your smile at home. Daily care at home helps limit how much plaque can accumulate on the teeth in between your routine visits. Each day, you should brush twice for two minutes using a toothbrush with soft bristles and a toothpaste that contains fluoride. You also need to floss up and down the length of each side of every tooth before going to bed. We also suggest you avoid cigarettes and tobacco products as well.
TALK TO SUNNY SMILES IN EL PASO ABOUT KEEPING SMILES CLEAN
At Sunny Smiles in El Paso, TX, our team is ready to help you enjoy healthy, whole smiles with routine preventive care. If you have questions about the cleaning process, 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!