In our last blog, we explained how a routine checkup every few months can safeguard your smile. But in the same visit we also conduct a cleaning, which is also crucial for fighting issues like tooth decay and gum disease. In today’s blog, your Astoria, NY, dentist talks about the benefits of dental cleanings.
The Causes of Plaque and Tartar Buildup
Over time, the sugar and starch in our foods and drinks that are left behind when we eat and drink will be consumed by harmful oral bacteria. As this happens, the teeth are coated in a sticky layer of plaque, which hardens with time into tartar. This buildup then weakens and erodes the enamel to cause cavities, and could inflame the gums to cause gingivitis and periodontal disease. You are also more likely to have bad breath and teeth stains! While brushing and flossing can help limit the severity of your buildup, only a professional cleaning can remove the layers of plaque and tartar completely, which is why we want to see you for one every six months.
Cleaning Your Teeth
With your dental cleaning, our team will employ an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual pick to gently remove buildup. The scaling device emits gentle vibrations that help break up the layers, while the pick is useful for getting the stubborn portions of tartar. The process only takes a few minutes, and we then polish your teeth to make it more difficult for plaque and tartar to adhere to your teeth before your next appointment. The polishing process also brightens your teeth too!
Managing Gum Disease
What if we find you have gingivitis or the early stages of gum disease? If this happens, then we could offer help with a deep cleaning, also known as a scaling and root planing. Using the same tools, we will also remove harmful buildup from the exposed portions of your roots and from beneath the gums. The process is more involved, and could take one visit or several, it all depends on the extent of your buildup. We then polish your teeth. With both options, you should take time to brush twice a day and floss every evening to help manage your oral health and control buildup before your next visit to our office.
If you have any questions, or if you want to schedule a dental cleaning, then contact our team today to learn more.
Schedule Your Appointment for Preventive Dentistry
Our team wants to offer a procedure to improve your oral health and keep your smile bright. To schedule your next appointment with our team, contact Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS in Astoria, NY by calling 718-728-8320 today.
