Did you know that over time plaque and tartar will form on our teeth, and that lack of removal could lead to cavities and even gum disease? To protect smiles of all ages, we may suggest a dental cleaning. In today’s blog, your Virginia Beach, VA, dentist talks about safeguarding smiles with a simple cleaning visit.
The Risks of Untreated Plaque Buildup
When harmful oral bacteria break down the particles of sugar and starch left behind by the food and drinks we consume, this creates plaque buildup. The sticky layers coat our teeth and over time, weakens enamel and inflames the gum tissues, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. The build later hardens into tartar and can be a source of bad breath and teeth stains. While brushing and flossing can limit the severity of your buildup, only a professional visit can remove the harmful layers. Which is why you need one every six months, so we can help you maintain good oral health.
Traditional Dental Cleanings
A traditional dental cleaning every six months can help remove the buildup completely to prevent cavities, periodontal issues, and even fight halitosis and discoloration. The visit is helpful for kids and adults alike, so your whole family benefits from an appointment. The procedure is simple: Our team will use an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual tool to gently break up and remove all plaque and tartar buildup from the surfaces of the teeth. We then polish the teeth to not only offer a brighter appearance, but make it more difficult for plaque and tartar to adhere to the teeth before your next cleaning appointment. The process only takes a few minutes, but keeps your teeth bright and healthy!
Perio Cleanings
What if you have experienced the warning signs of gingivitis or the early stages of gum disease, such as sore, red, and bleeding gums? If so, then you may need a perio cleaning. The official term is scaling and root planing, because we use the ultrasonic scaling device to break up and remove buildup from the teeth and from the roots and beneath the gums too. The process is more involved and could take two to four visits, depending on the extent of your buildup. We again polish your teeth, and can recommend traditional cleanings every three to four months to keep the disease managed and prevent the late stages connected to tooth loss.
If you have any questions about keeping your smile clean, or if you’re ready to schedule a visit for you and your family, then reach out to our team today.
Schedule a Visit Soon
Our team is ready to help protect your smile with routine plaque and tartar removal! Call Absolute Dental Care in Virginia Beach, VA at (757) 428-7440 to schedule an appointment.
