A dental cleaning is about more than just helping your smile look bright and keeping your breath fresh. In fact, these routine visits can help smiles of all ages in Omaha, NE, stay healthy and avoid the onset of serious complications, such as cavities or even gum disease. In today’s blog, we’re looking at how a dental cleaning can help safeguard your smile.
Routine Cleanings for Kids and Adults
Every six months we suggest toddlers, kids, teens, and yes, adults, have their teeth cleaned by the dentist. The procedure involves the dentist or hygienist using a manual tool and an ultrasonic scaling device to remove all plaque and tartar (hardened, calcified plaque) from the surface of the teeth. We then polish the teeth afterward, which helps provide a brighter appearance, smoother feel, and fresher breath. Plaque forms when bacteria break down food particles lodged between the teeth. Over time, plaque can weaken and erode enamel leading to cavities, or irritate and inflame gum tissue, causing gingivitis and gum disease. By having your teeth cleaned, you limit the risk of these common, but serious, oral health issues.
Scaling and Root Planings
What if you already experience the warning signs of gingivitis and gum disease, such as red, sore gums that bleed easily? In this case, you may need more than a traditional six-month cleaning. We may instead prescribe a scaling and root planing, in which we use an ultrasonic scaler to remove plaque from the surface of the teeth, and also smooth the surface of the roots. The procedure can be completed in one visit, or may take two to four depending on the extent of the buildup. Afterward, you will need more frequent traditional cleanings to help protect the smile, so we may suggest visits every three to four months.
Keep Smiles Clean at Home
When you take steps to care for your smile at home, you limit how much plaque can form in between your routine office visits. We suggest you brush your teeth when you wake up and again before going to bed, for at least two minutes each session. You also need to floss every night before bed. These steps can remove food particles and deprive harmful bacteria of the fuel needed to create plaque and tartar. If you have any questions about preventive dental care, or if you would like to schedule a visit for you or a member of your family, then contact our team today.
Do You Need a General Visit?
We can help people of all ages enjoy optimal oral health for many years to come. To learn more, schedule a consultation by calling Pacific Hills Dental in Omaha, NE, today at (402) 330-2243. We also serve the residents of Papillion, Elkhorn, La Vista, Millard, and all surrounding communities.
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