Teeth Cleaning Oral hygiene at home is the foundation of preventive dental care. However, even the most diligent brushing and flossing cannot prevent the inevitable buildup of plaque and tartar in between the teeth, and along the gumline. We recommend that our patients visit us for a professional cleaning every six months. In addition, regular cleanings give us an opportunity to examine our patient's oral health, detect problems early, and treat them quickly. The Importance of Regular CleaningsProfessional teeth cleanings are essential to maintain optimal oral health and prevent serious dental issues. Daily brushing and flossing form the foundation of dental hygiene, but even the most diligent home care cannot completely prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar. These bacterial deposits accumulate in hard to reach areas, and can only be effectively removed through professional cleanings. What Happens During a Cleaning?A professional dental cleaning involves several steps. The process begins with a physical examination of your mouth, where we check for signs of gingivitis, decay, oral cancers, and other issues. The main cleaning process starts with scaling, where we remove plaque and tartar buildup from both above and below the gum line. This is done using specialized tools that can reach places that a toothbrush and floss cannot. After scaling, our team polishes the teeth with a specialized paste and tool that removes surface stains and creates a smooth finish that makes it harder for bacteria to adhere to the teeth. Benefits Beyond Clean TeethProfessional cleanings offer benefits that extend far beyond a bright smile. Regular cleanings help to prevent periodontal (gum) disease. Gum disease has been linked to other, systemic health conditions including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infection. These appointments also provide an opportunity for early detection of oral health issues, when they can be treated before they become larger problems that require more extensive treatments. The Role of X-rays and ExaminationMany appointments for professional cleanings include dental X-rays. This helps us identify problems that aren't visible to the naked eye. These images can reveal issues like decay between teeth, impacted teeth, abscesses, cysts, bone loss, and abnormal growths. The frequency of X-rays depends on age, oral health, and other factors. Special Considerations and Deep CleaningsPatients with periodontal disease may require deep cleanings, also called scaling and root planing. This intensive procedure cleans below the gum line and smooths out rough spots on tooth roots where bacteria gathers. Deep cleanings may require multiple visits, but scaling and root planing is crucial to prevent tooth loss in patients with advanced gum disease. Maintaining Results Between VisitsGood oral hygiene habits at home maximize the benefits of professional cleanings. This includes brushing twice per day, and flossing each evening to clean between the teeth before sleep. A healthy, balanced diet that is low in sugar also helps to prevent plaque buildup between cleanings. Regular professional cleanings are an investment in our patient's health. With this opportunity to prevent serious dental issues and catch problems early, cleaning and examination appointments save our patients costs and discomfort over the long run, and help them keep a confident smile. Schedule Your Appointment today!If you are interested in learning more about our services, please call (971) 208-6023, and schedule your appointment today! |
Contact Information876 Welcome Way SE Salem, OR 97302-4092 Office HoursMonday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Tuesday: 7:00am - 5:00pm Wednesday: 8:00am - 5:00pm Thursday: 7:00am - 5:00pm Friday: 8:00am - 5:00pm (971) 208-6023 info@ksfamilydentist.com Follow Us |
