MAINTENANCE
DETAILS MAKES YOUR SMILE PERFECT
is here to keep your teeth and gums clean and healthy.
We focus first on patient education – risk factors, oral hygiene instructions, and nutrition counseling. Our core philosophy is prevention – cleanings, sealants, and fluoride.
CLEANINGS
Teeth cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is part of oral hygiene and involves the removal of dental plaque from teeth with the intention of preventing cavities (dental caries), gingivitis, and periodontal disease. People routinely clean their own teeth by brushing and flossing. Dental hygienists can remove hardened deposits (tartar) not removed by routine brushing and flossing.
SCALING AND ROOT PLANING
If gum disease is present, we will perform gum disease treatment and maintenance. Periodontal diseases are infections of the gums, which gradually lead to the destruction of the bone support around your natural teeth. These diseases affect more that 80% of Americans by the age of 45. Dental plaque is the primary cause of gum disease. Bacteria found in plaque produce enzymes and toxins, which injure the gums. Injured gums turn red, swell and bleed easily. If this injury is prolonged, the gums separate from the teeth, causing pockets (spaces) to form. Plaque can also harden into a rough, porous substance known as calculus (tartar). This can occur both above and below the gum line. As periodontal diseases progress, the supporting gum tissue and bone that holds teeth in place deteriorate. If left untreated, this leads to tooth loss. Pain is usually not present until damage from this disease is very advanced.
SEALANTS AND FLUORIDE
Decay generally happens in premolars and molars due to the build-up of bacteria within the grooves of the tooth's biting surface. Even with proper oral hygiene, bacteria within these deep crevices is extremely hard to brush out and can allow plaque and bacteria to form thus leading to a cavity, which then needs to be filled. Dental sealants effectively create a protective layer over a tooth's biting surface by sealing off tooth crevices making it impossible for plaque and bacteria to form. Dental sealants also make brushing these teeth much more effective which also keeps the cavities away. Dental sealants are for everyone! Fluoride is often called nature’s cavity fighter and for good reason. Fluoride, a naturally occurring mineral, helps prevent cavities in children and adults by making the outer surface of your teeth (enamel) more resistant to the acid attacks that cause tooth decay.