Cleanings

Proper oral hygiene does not only prevent caries and periodontal disease but also affects our overall health and well-being.

It is important to see the dentist every six months to have a proper cleaning and a thorough review of home care hygiene practices for patients with healthy gums or patients with gingivitis. If untreated, gingivitis can lead to periodontal disease, which is the loss of bone and gum attachment to the teeth. Dentally, this can lead to loose teeth, spacing between the teeth, and eventual loss of teeth. Periodontitis is often a precursor to a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. The bacteria in the mouth associated with periodontal disease can often lead to issues with heart disease. Patients with diagnosed periodontal disease will need a special type of cleaning. We will comfortably numb the gums so that we can effectively clean in the deeper pocketed areas to eliminate harmful tartar beneath the gumline where the bacteria that destroy the bone grow. We will then devise a home care plan with the patient so that they may clean more effectively at home. These patients will need more frequent dental cleanings to prevent this harmful bacterial build up and to monitor the health of the gums and effectiveness of home care to prevent eventual loss of teeth and associated health concerns.