A dental cleaning may seem minor, especially if you take time to brush and floss daily, but this visit is crucial for everyone! In addition to fighting bad breath and teeth stains, a routine cleaning can also lower the risk of tooth decay and yes, even gum disease. In today’s blog, your Astoria, NY, dentist talks about our dental cleanings.
The Factors Behind Gum Disease
Periodontal disease impacts half of adults over the age of 30, and could lead to serious discomfort and even tooth loss. The issue occurs when the gums are inflamed, developing gingivitis as a result. The inflammation could be brought on by plaque buildup, caused by infrequent or improper brushing and flossing and a diet high in sugar and starch. Smoking cigarettes and using tobacco products could also impact your gingival tissues, as could inflammatory illness, certain medications, or even a family history of periodontal concerns. Warning signs include sore, red gums that bleed easily, and receding tissues that make the teeth appear long. When you develop these symptoms, let us know right away. Treatment to manage the disease is crucial for keeping your smile whole.
The Benefits of the Procedure
A dental cleaning removes all plaque and tartar from the teeth, which can reverse gingivitis and allow gum disease to be managed, so it never reaches the later stage linked to tooth loss. The procedure involves our team gently removing all plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth with an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual pick. The process only takes a short period, and we then polish the teeth. Polishing them not only helps them stay bright, but this makes it more difficult for plaque and tartar to adhere to the teeth in the months in between your visits. If you have healthy gums, we recommend a visit every six months. If you have gum disease or risk factors, you may need one every three to four months.
When Do You Need a Scaling and Root Planing?
If you have severe buildup and the warning signs of advanced gum disease, we may need a deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, to manage the issue and protect your smile. Using the same tools, we remove plaque and tartar from the teeth and roots, and beneath the gum line. This could take one visit to up to four, it all depends on the severity of your buildup. We then offer traditional cleanings every three to four months to prevent severe buildup and worsening disease. If you have any questions, then contact our team today to learn more.
Talk To Your Astoria, NY Dentist About Scheduling Your Next Visit
Our team wants to help you enjoy a strong and healthy smile for years to come, then please call Dr. Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS at 718-728-8320.
