Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease that can usually be reversed with daily brushing, flossing, and regular cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist. The bacteria cause inflammation of the gums that is called "gingivitis." In gingivitis, the gums become red, swollen, and can bleed easily. The longer plaque and tartar are on teeth, the more harmful they become. Only a professional cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist can remove tartar. Plaque that is not removed can harden and form bacteria-harboring "tartar" that brushing doesn't clean. Brushing and flossing help get rid of plaque. These bacteria, along with mucus and other particles, constantly form a sticky, colorless "plaque" on teeth. Flossing thoroughly helps remove plaque and debris from between the teeth, especially in hard-to-reach areas at and slightly below the gumline.īack to top What causes periodontal disease? Proper brushing helps remove plaque from the outer, inner and chewing surfaces of your teeth. You can help improve your oral hygiene by making plaque control part of your daily routine. A polished tooth surface makes it more difficult for plaque and debris to accumulate. Then, polishing with a special paste by means of a motorized instrument removes the remaining plaque and surface stains caused by various foods, beverages, tobacco, etc. Instruments called scalers are used to remove calculus from teeth above and below the gumline. A prophylaxis is usually performed in two steps. The prophylaxis not only helps prevent gum disease, but also improves the appearance of your teeth by making them look clean and bright. It can only be removed during regular dental prophylaxis.īack to top What does a professional cleaning do that I can't do for myself?Ī prophylaxis is a professional cleaning procedure that can be done only by a dentist or hygienist. Your toothbrush and floss can't remove calculus once it has formed. Calculus, which is mostly mineral, provides a rough surface to which more plaque can attach, and makes thorough plaque removal more difficult. Minerals in saliva combine with plaque at the tooth surface and harden into a rough, unsightly deposit called calculus (tartar). It's easy to see why brushing and flossing to remove plaque is essential to keep your teeth and gums healthy. As a result, the supporting structures are weakened and teeth become loose. If not treated early, gingivitis can lead to periodontitis, a more serious condition that causes gums to recede and bone to deteriorate. Plaque can also cause inflammation of the gums (gingivitis), which can result in swollen and bleeding gums. It combines with sugar and other carbohydrates to form acids, which attack tooth enamel and can cause cavities. Plaque is a soft, sticky, colorless film of bacteria that is constantly forming on your teeth. Cleaning is done by a dental professional in the dental office and we provide education in proper care of the teeth and gums. Professional cleaning removes plaque, calculus (tartar), and stains from your teeth. Please see How to Brush and How to Floss for more information.īack to top Why do I need a prophylaxis (professional cleaning)? When you do your part at home every day, it makes the visits to our office much more enjoyable. When you follow our recommended home care routine and have regular professional care, you will be able to maintain healthier teeth and gums. This requires professional care and guidance provided by us, combined with proper care at home by you. What does a professional cleaning do that I can't do for myself?ĭental health begins with good oral hygiene.Why do I need a prophylaxis (professional cleaning)?.Whether it is stopped, slowed, or gets worse depends on how well you care for your teeth and gums every day. Research also points to possible health effects of periodontal diseases that go well beyond your mouth (more about this later). Gum disease is a threat to your oral health. Periodontal diseases range from simple gum inflammation to serious diseases that result in major damage to the soft tissue and bone that support the teeth. An estimated 80 percent of American adults currently have some form of the disease. If you have been told you have periodontal (gum) disease, you're not alone. Many people require a routine cleaning three or four times a year due to buildup of plaque and tartar. Professional dental cleanings are necessary at least twice each year to maintain good oral health. This includes crowns, implants, or other substitutes and the maintenance of the health, function and aesthetics of all of the structures and tissues. Periodontics is that specialty of dentistry that encompasses the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the supporting and surrounding tissues of the teeth.
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