Over time, plaque and tartar buildup can coat the teeth and without removal, could lead to the onset of issues like tooth decay and gum disease. Which is why we urge patients to see us every six months for a dental cleaning! In today’s blog, your Kansas City, MO, dentist talks about cleaning your teeth.
The Risks of Plaque and Tartar Buildup
When we consume foods and drinks that contain a lot of sugar and starch, this could leave behind particles trapped on and between the teeth. As bacteria break them down, this creates an elevated amount of oral acidity, and coats the teeth in plaque, a sticky substance that hardens with time into tartar. The buildup is linked to bad breath, teeth stains, and a higher risk of tooth decay and gum disease. While brushing and flossing can control the buildup, to remove it completely and safeguard your smile you need a professional cleaning every six months.
The Cleaning Process
As part of your routine checkup visit, we will take time to clean your teeth thoroughly. With an ultrasonic scaling device, gentle vibrations will be used or help break up and remove plaque and tartar. We then use a manual pick to remove the more stubborn portions of plaque and tartar. Finally, we polish your teeth. This not only brightens them, but this can make it more difficult for plaque and tartar to cling to the teeth before your next six-month appointment!
Scaling and Root Planing
If you have gingivitis or the early stages of gum disease, then our team could help you with a perio cleaning, also known as a scaling and root planing. This uses the same tools, but is more involved as we also remove buildup from the roots and beneath the gum line too. For some, this could take one visit while others may need multiple ones. We will numb your smile beforehand to ensure your comfort. We again polish your teeth afterward, and may recommend traditional cleanings every three to four months to control buildup and manage the disease.
If you have any questions about how we protect smiles of all ages with our dental cleanings, or if you would like to schedule one for you and your family, then contact our team today to learn more. We want to help you smile with confidence and enjoy your best possible smile!
Schedule Your Professional Visit With Delightful Dental Care
We want to help you protect your smile from the onset of issues like tooth decay and periodontal disease. To find out more about controlling plaque and tartar buildup, call Delightful Dental Care in Kansas City, MO at (816) 942-7669.