Over time, various factors could lead to the onset of plaque and tartar buildup. Without treatment, this could increase the risk of poor oral health, from cavities to gum disease. In today’s blog, your Allen, TX, dentist talks about how we help protect smiles of all ages with a routine dental cleaning.
The Impacts of Plaque and Tartar
Over time, harmful oral bacteria will break down the particles of food trapped on and between your teeth. As a result, the teeth will become coated in plaque buildup. This buildup hardens over time into tartar, and cannot be removed with brushing and flossing alone. If left in place, plaque grows in severity and could lead to weakened outer enamel and inflamed gum tissues, increasing the risk of tooth decay, gingivitis, and gum disease. This is also linked to teeth stains and bad breath too.
Removal With a Cleaning
To protect your smile, you and your family should see us every six months for a dental cleaning visit. Using an ultrasonic scaler and a manual tool, we will gently and carefully remove all plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth. We then polish them for a brighter appearance and smoother finish. Brushing and flossing at home then limits how much plaque can accumulate until you see us again. This benefits adults and kids two and older as well. If you haven’t seen us lately, an appointment now means you can start 2022 with a brighter and healthier smile, and use any remaining 2021 dental insurance benefits before they expire at the end of December.
The Scaling and Root Planing Buildup
What if your buildup is so severe that you’re starting to exhibit warning signs of gingivitis or gum disease, such as sore, red gums that bleed easily? In these situations, you may need a procedure known as a deep cleaning, or a scaling and root planing. Using the same ultrasonic scaling device, we will remove buildup from both the teeth and the roots. This could take one visit, or up to four depending on how severe the buildup is. We again polish your smile afterward, and you may need to see us for traditional cleanings every three to four months afterward. If you have any questions about these preventive treatment options, or if you would like to schedule a visit for you or a member of your family, then please contact our team today to learn more.
Talk To Your Allen, TX Dentist About General Dental Care
Our team wants to help you safeguard your smile with routine preventive dental care. To find out more about how we carefully remove plaque and tartar or about any of our other treatment options, then contact your Allen, TX, dentist, Dr. Torrens-Parker, by calling 469-342-6644.
