Over time, plaque and tartar buildup can coat your teeth and lead to poor oral health and major complications, even bad breath and teeth stains! With our ultrasonic scaling device, we can help control buildup and even manage issues like periodontal disease. In today’s blog, your Prairie Village, KS, dentist talks about the ultrasonic scaling device!
The Dangers Posed by Plaque and Tartar
When we consume foods and drinks with sugar and starch, there could be particles left behind. When harmful oral bacteria break down these particles, this coats the teeth in a bacterial byproduct known as plaque. This sticky layer cannot be removed with brushing and flossing alone, and in fact hardens into tartar with time. The layers can weaken and erode the outer enamel to make cavities possible. Buildup can also irritate and inflame the gums, which increase the risk of gingivitis and gum disease. Bad breath and even teeth stains are more likely! Which is why you need to have this buildup removed regularly, which we can do with a cleaning using an ultrasonic scaling device.
A Dental Cleaning
Every six months, we want to see you for a regular dental cleaning. During this visit, our team will use an ultrasonic scaling device to remove the plaque and tartar from your teeth. The device emits gentle vibrations to break up and remove the layers from your teeth. We then use a manual pick for the more stubborn portions. Our team will then polish the teeth for a brighter appearance and to make it more difficult for plaque and tartar to cling to your teeth before you see us again in six months. You can also brush and floss at home to help limit buildup severity until we can remove it all!
Scaling and Root Planing
If you have a more severe case of buildup and your gums are exhibiting tell-tale signs of periodontal disease, such as soreness, redness, bleeding, swelling, or even recession, then we may offer a deep cleaning to manage the issue. Using the same ultrasonic scaling device, we will remove the layers from both the teeth and the roots, and also from beneath the gum line. We will numb your smile as this is a more involved procedure, one that could take one visit or several, depending on your buildup’s severity. We then manage the issue with a routine cleaning every three to four months. If you have any questions, then contact our team today to learn more!
Call Dr. Robert Browne, D.D.S. Offers Periodontal Treatment
Our team wants to help you enjoy good gum health and avoid tooth decay or infection from developing. To find out more about preventive dentistry, or to schedule an appointment, please call Dr. Robert M. Browne, D.D.S. in Prairie Village, KS at (913) 901-8585.
