Even if you brush and floss, you still need to see our team for a dental cleaning. This preventive procedure can help lower the risk of cavities, and even issues like gingivitis and gum disease. In today’s blog, Dr. Robert M. Browne talks about how dental cleanings prevent periodontal trouble.
The Link Between Plaque and Gum Disease
How does plaque buildup lead to disease? Plaque is a sticky layer that forms on the teeth when bacteria consume particles of sugar and starch. This layer then hardens with time into tartar. While routine brushing and flossing can limit the severity of your buildup, only a professional procedure can remove these layers completely from your smile. Which is why we urge patients of all ages to see us every six months. A dental cleaning helps prevent periodontal trouble and more, fighting tooth decay, gingivitis, and even gum disease. Remember, periodontal disease is the largest contributor to tooth loss in adults, but healthy gums can help safeguard your oral health!
Removing Buildup
A dental cleaning prevents periodontal trouble by removing the buildup that can irritate and inflame the gums to cause gingivitis and disease. The process is simple. Our team will use an ultrasonic scaling device to gently and thoroughly remove all plaque and tartar from the teeth. The device will emit gentle vibrations to remove these layers, and we then follow this with a manual pick for any stubborn portions of tartar. The last step is to polish the teeth for a brighter appearance and to make it harder for buildup to accumulate, before we see you again. These visits can help smiles of all ages, from kids to adults, and should happen twice a year.
Scaling and Root Planing
If a dental cleaning prevents periodontal trouble, what should you do if you already have periodontal disease? In a case like this, we could help with a procedure known as a scaling and root planing. We use the same tools, but instead of just removing buildup from the teeth. We also remove it from the roots and from under the gums. The process is more involved so we may numb your smile ahead of time. We then polish the teeth and may recommend a routine buildup removal every three to four months to manage the disease.
If you have any questions about how our dental cleanings prevent periodontal trouble, or if you would like to schedule a visit now, then contact our team today.
Dr. Browne, DDS, Provides Healthier Smiles
Our general and preventive treatments can help safeguard your smile. To find out more about our approach to family dentistry, or to schedule an appointment, please call Dr. Robert M. Browne, D.D.S. in Prairie Village, KS at (913) 901-8585.
