If you don’t seek a professional cleaning from your dentist, this could lead to an increased risk of tooth decay and gum disease. In today’s blog, your Brighton, MA, dentists talk about how a simple procedure could help prevent disease, and also bad breath and teeth stains. Find out why we recommend one every six months!
Plaque Buildup and Gum Disease
Did you know that when we eat foods and drinks high in sugar, or snacks and meals high in starch, this leaves behind particles for bacteria to consume? When this happens, plaque buildup coats the teeth. The sticky layer of bacteria byproduct will then cause demineralization, weakening and eroding outer enamel to cause decay and infection. The same layers also inflame gum tissues, causing gingivitis and eventually, gum disease. Not to mention the bad breath and teeth stains that can follow! Brushing and flossing each day helps limit how much plaque can form, but to remove the buildup completely you need a professional dental cleaning.
Dental Cleaning
We recommend one of these visits every six months. During your visit, our team will gently remove all plaque and tartar with an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual tool. The process only takes a few minutes, and we then polish the teeth for a brighter appearance and a smoother feel. These benefit people of all ages, from kids as young as two to seniors. Removing the buildup helps prevent weakened enamel and could reverse gingivitis. Then at home, you continue care by brushing your teeth for two minutes in the morning and evening, and using a fluoride toothpaste to strengthen the enamel in the process. Even more important, you also need to floss every evening before bed!
Periodontal Treatment
We also offer a deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, as part of your periodontal treatment. When your buildup is also accompanied by sore, red gums that bleed easily, this means you have gingivitis or possibly the early stages of gum disease. Using the ultrasonic scaling device, we then remove buildup from the teeth and the roots as well. This could take one visit, or up to four if buildup is severe. We may administer a numbing agent beforehand, and will again polish your teeth afterward. A regular cleaning every three to four months afterward could help manage gum disease and prevent the later stages, which are linked to adult tooth loss.
Do You Have Any Questions?
Our team wants to help people avoid poor oral health with routine dental care. To learn more about keeping smiles clean and healthy, then schedule a consultation by calling Brighton Family Dental Group in Brighton, MA, today at (617) 562-5210. We proudly welcome patients from Brookline, Newton, and all surrounding communities.
