Planning for the Next Dentist Cleaning

Annual dental cleanings can mean the difference between white, shiny teeth and rotted, discolored teeth. Brushing and flossing might not be enough to sustain overall oral hygiene. Visiting a dentist once or even twice a year will prevent many problems that can affect the gums and teeth. These problems like tooth decay and gingivitis are not only easily avoidable, but are also reversible.

Tooth decay is a symptom caused by bacteria. Once bacteria enter the mouth, they attach themselves to the teeth. However, these bacteria can be held in check as long as they aren’t fed. Eating a high amount of sugar and other carbs will cause the bacteria to produce plaque. Once plaque becomes attached to teeth, it begins to wear away the minerals in the enamel, which leads to cavities.

Visiting a dentist annually for a teeth cleaning will help to remove plaque build-ups that brushing and flossing alone won’t get to. Fluoride is one treatment that can help prevent and even reverse tooth decay. When visiting the dentist a fluoride gel will be applied to the teeth which will restore mineral to the enamel and reduce the production of plaque.

Gingivitis can also be caused by plaque build-up. Gingivitis is an inflammation of the gums and can lead to a more serious disease called periodontal disease. Plaque can accumulate in the space between the gums and the teeth and will cause the teeth to separate from the gums. This separation will weaken the structure of the tooth and could end with the extraction of the tooth. As plaque collects it can harden and become tartar. Once tartar is formed, only a dentist can remove it.

Gingivitis and tartar build-up can, however, be reversed. While brushing and flossing can help prevent plaque, a visit to the dentist is necessary to remove tartar. There are new technologies available to remove tartar and prevent gum disease. Ultrasonic cleaning implements can scrape away tartar and leave teeth reinvigorated. These treatments can undo the effects of gingivitis and prevent periodontal disease. An annual trip to the dentist’s office is the only way to undo the effects of serious gum disease.

Oral hygiene is never as simple as at-home brushing and flossing. Specific instruments are needed to get in between teeth and remove built up bacteria and plaque. Visiting a dentist for a regular teeth cleaning can prevent any long term gum or tooth disease. Visit this link to find out more about dental cleaning in Chapel Hill.