Our last blog explained how a checkup is a crucial part of keeping smiles strong and healthy. However, in the same visit we also complete a procedure that is vital to your continued oral health. A dental cleaning enables your Astoria, NY, dentist and his team to remove plaque buildup, which otherwise poses a serious risk of danger to your teeth and gums.
How Does Plaque Accumulate?
Plaque buildup is a bacterial byproduct that develops as harmful oral bacteria consume the food particles trapped on and between our teeth. The buildup eventually hardens into tartar, and can be impossible to remove with brushing and flossing alone. Unless removed, this buildup could weaken and erode our enamel, leading to tooth decay. Buildup also irritates and inflames gum tissues, boosting the risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease.
Removal with Dental Cleanings
During your six-month visit, our team will carefully remove all buildup from the teeth with an ultrasonic scaler and manual tool. We then thoroughly polish the teeth for a smoother finish. Not only does this process help lower the risks of issues like tooth decay and gum disease, but also helps combat bad breath and keeps teeth brighter as well. We suggest this procedure for people twice a year at a minimum. In between these visits, be sure you cut back on sugary foods and drinks, as these leave behind particles for bacteria to feed on. Also, make time to brush and floss thoroughly, as this limits how much plaque can accumulate until your next visit.
When Do I Need a Deep Cleaning?
A deep cleaning, also known as a scaling and root planing, is a more involved procedure that helps reverse gingivitis or manage the early stages of gum disease. Since we’re removing more severe buildup, the process could take between one and four visits. We remove plaque not only from the teeth, but the roots as well. Afterward, we polish the teeth and may schedule a routine visit every three to four months to keep your smile clean and free of serious plaque and tartar accumulation. If you have any questions about combatting buildup from home, or if you would like to schedule a cleaning for you or a member of your family, then please contact our team today.
Ready to Schedule Your Next Visit?
Our team uses preventive dental care to help protect smiles and prevent the onset of serious issues, like tooth decay and gum disease. Be sure you make time to see us for these visits at least twice a year! To learn more about protecting your smile from serious oral health issues, then schedule a consultation by calling Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, in Astoria, NY, today at 718-728-8320.
