In matters of your oral health, a little preventive dentistry goes a long way. Many patients believe that because preventive measures are more routine than, say, a root canal or implant procedure, that they are somehow less important to the health of your teeth and gums. Not at all, says Dr. Jeffrey Leibowitz, who encourages his patients to schedule twice-yearly dental checkups in Astoria, NY. A checkup and cleaning goes far beyond polishing your smile. It’s about prevention and early detection of issues that could have devastating consequences if left untreated.
What to Expect During Professional Teeth Cleaning
After discussing any concerns you may have about your oral health, Dr. Leibowitz will remove all traces of yellow, sticky plaque from on and between your teeth. If you have only a light buildup of plaque, manual scaling will remove it effectively. For patients who have more substantial buildup, an ultrasonic scaler uses gentle vibrations to break up and remove plaque and tartar. By removing this buildup, Dr. Leibowitz uncovers your natural tooth color, eliminating minor stains. Plaque removal also helps prevent halitosis, or chronic bad breath, and eliminates toxins that irritate your gums and increase your risk of developing periodontal disease.
Less Plaque, Less Risk of Tooth Decay
Plaque consists of a mixture of bacteria, sugar, and acidic by-products of those bacteria. These acids attack the protective enamel covering your teeth, creating small pits in the tooth surface. As a result, the tooth becomes more susceptible to staining. Over time, the enamel becomes less capable of warding off bacterial invaders, until it offers little protection for the inner tooth structure. Cavities form within the tooth, causing the tooth to ache, become more sensitive to brushing, and develop a higher risk of serious infections. Dr. Leibowitz and the American Dental Association advise patients to schedule a professional cleaning and exam every six months.
The Link Between Plaque and Gum Disease
Toxins and acids in plaque irritate sensitive gum tissue, leading to inflammation that induces the gums to gradually recede from the teeth. Small pockets form along your gum line, inviting bacterial colonization. Periodontal disease ravages the connective tissue that holds your teeth in place, causing tooth to loosen or even fall out. Symptoms of gum disease include gums that appear swollen and red, are sensitive to touch, and bleed when you brush or floss. Regular dental exams allow Dr. Leibowitz to identify patients at risk of developing advanced gum disease. If you have already lost teeth, Dr. Leibowitz also provides implant restorations, dentures, and dental bridges.
When was your last dental cleaning? To learn more about the importance of preventive dentistry, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jeffrey Leibowitz, contact us at (718) 728-8320. Dr. Leibowitz, a graduate of the SUNY Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, welcomes patients from across New Jersey, upstate New York, Astoria, Queens, and the surrounding areas.
