The simple answer is...the prevention of disease.
Professional Dental Cleanings:
Professional cleanings (dental prophylaxis) performed by a certified dental hygienist form the foundation for preventing gum disease and tooth decay.
Professional cleanings (dental prophylaxis) performed by a certified dental hygienist form the foundation for preventing gum disease and tooth decay.
In a professional cleaning, your hygienist will:
- Remove plaque from the teeth -- Plaque is a sticky substance that forms in the mouth from food, saliva and bacteria. Plaque sticks to teeth and causes tooth decay and gum disease.
- Remove calculus (tarter) above the gum line -- Calculus is plaque that has hardened on the tooth surface and is difficult to remove. (Calculus below the gum line indicates gum disease and requires a different procedure to remove it.)
- Polish and remove stains from teeth
Dental Examinations:
Dental examinations help to diagnose disease before it becomes hazardous to your health.
Dental examinations help to diagnose disease before it becomes hazardous to your health.
What types of things are we trying to prevent?
- Oral cancer
- Gum disease
- Visual appearance of tooth decay
- Cysts, tumors, invisible decay and other problems that can't be seen by the naked eye
- Making sure current restorations are in tact.
We cannot express enough how important it is to see your dentist regularly.
Remember, preventing disease is always better than treating disease.
