Removing Plaque Buildup With a Cleaning
August 5, 2021
When you have harmful plaque buildup, this could lead to not only bad breath and unsightly teeth stains, but a greater risk of cavities and even periodontal disease. To preserve your smile and prevent discomfort, you need to have this buildup removed regularly. In today’s blog, your Kansas City, MO, dentist explains how we accomplish this with a cleaning!
The Causes and Risks of Plaque and Tartar
When food particles remain trapped on or between the teeth, then harmful oral bacteria will break down these particles and then consume them. In the process, this not only elevates overall oral acidity, but starts to coat the teeth on a bacterial byproduct known as plaque. Over time, this buildup hardens into tartar. Brushing and flossing can limit how much plaque accumulates, but cannot remove the buildup completely. Unless removed, the buildup could erode the outer enamel, leading to the onset of tooth decay. The buildup also irritates and inflames the gums, increasing the risk of gingivitis and gum disease. This is also linked to bad breath and even teeth stains!
The Dental Cleaning
Every six months we want to see you for a dental cleaning. These visits benefit people of all ages, and help us remove plaque and tartar completely with an ultrasonic scaling device and a manual tool. Next, we polish the teeth. The process only takes a few minutes, but helps protect your oral health. In between your visits, you can help by brushing your teeth twice daily for two minutes. Be sure to use a fluoride toothpaste too! Every evening, you should floss to remove what a toothbrush alone cannot reach.
Scaling and Root Planing
We also have a procedure known as a deep cleaning. These remove buildup from not only the surfaces of the teeth, but from the roots too. The process is used when people exhibit the warning signs of gingivitis and gum disease, allowing us to reverse or manage the issue, keeping smiles whole and healthy. The procedure could take between one and four visits, and may be necessary if you notice your gums appear redder than usual, feel sore, or bleed easily. The final step is to once again polish the teeth.
If you have any questions about these preventive visits, or if you would like to schedule one for you or a member of your family, then contact our team today to learn more.
Do You Have Questions About Our Cleanings?
Our team knows how to help protect your smile with routine care every few months. To learn more about how we remove harmful bacterial buildup, or to schedule your next six-month visit, then schedule a consultation by calling Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry of Kansas City, MO, today at 816-427-4018.