Brushing two times a day for at least 2 mins each time is the first step in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. But even the best toothbrush can’t fully cleanse the spaces between your teeth. That’s why the American dental Association recommends you floss once a day to remove food particles and PLAQUE – the sticky, biofilm on your teeth that can lead to cavities and gum disease.
The bacteria in plaque can cause your gums to become inflamed. When this happens, your gums will pull away from your teeth and form spaces called pockets. Plaque then gets trapped in these pockets and cannot be removed with regular brushing.
Plaque that isn’t cleansed away by brushing or flossing can harden into a rough substance called tartar or calculus. Calculus builds up along your gum line which can lead to gum disease. Once calculus forms, only a professional dental provider can remove it.
A thorough periodontal evaluation along with x-rays determines your periodontal health and the type of cleaning needed.
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is an infection of the tissues that surround and support your teeth, and is caused by a buildup of plaque and calculus.
Some factors increase the risk of developing gum disease. They are:
- poor oral hygiene
- smoking or chewing tobacco.
- genetics
- crooked teeth that are hard to keep clean.
- pregnancy
- diabetes
- certain medications
Twice annual teeth cleaning should be a part of preventive oral healthcare. Along with brushing and flossing, professional teeth cleaning keeps your teeth healthy and your smile bright!
Treatment every three months is recommended for periodontal disease, rather than twice annually to ensure oral health is maintained.
If you have any questions about our services, please contact us today at (480) 306-5506.