If allowed to build up, bacteria adheres to the teeth, tongue and soft tissue which becomes plaque, that over time can mineralize into a hard substance called calculus. Only professional cleanings can remove calculus. Calculus harbors bacteria.

Inadequate home care is the primary cause of gingivitis (inflamed gums), periodontitis (bacterial gum disease), and oral malodor (bad breath). Patients can minimize bacterial accumulation through regular brushing, flossing, tongue scraping, tooth pick, and periodic dental hygiene appointments (dental prophylaxis).

This bacteria is now linked with Cardiovascular Disease, Diabetes, and Early Term, Low Birth Rate in Pregnancy.

The Hygiene Appointment.

Professional cleanings and assessments enable dental professionals to remain abreast of your oral health status and they can provide guidance on steps to take to maintain healthy teeth and gums. Regular preventive dental visits allow problems to be identified early while they can be fixed easily and painlessly.

What Should You Expect?

During a standard appointment, a dental hygienist uses scaling and/or ultrasonic instruments to remove the build-up of plaque and calculus from the teeth and soft tissue. The hygienist and dentist may:

• Screen for cancer and other diseases
• Evaluate supporting bone structure
• Check for cavities
• Assess the integrity of existing dental restorations
• Take x-rays
• Apply fluoride
• Evaluate aesthetic options
• Educate you on your oral health status

TEETH CLEANING

When a dentist or dental hygienist cleans your teeth they remove soft (plaque) and hard (tartar, calculus, or stains) deposits from your teeth. The primary purpose of having your teeth cleaned is to prevent or delay the progression of periodontal diseases.

Professional dental care alone, however, is inadequate to prevent periodontal diseases.

Smoking has been implicated in approximately 50% of periodontal disease cases in adults (Tomar 2000). Abstaining from tobacco use, maintaining good oral hygiene, and having your teeth cleaned professionally are the most effective ways to prevent periodontal diseases. Periodontal Disease is linked to bone loss and possible heart disease and strokes.

How Often Should I Get My Teeth Cleaned?

As with routine dental examinations, the frequency of professional teeth cleaning will depend on the health of your teeth, gums and bone. Healthy children and adults should have their teeth cleaned at least once every 6 months. If you are at risk of periodontal diseases because of tobacco use, rate of accumulation of deposits, personal oral hygiene practices, or medical conditions such as pregnancy, diabetes or hearth disease, your teeth may need to be cleaned more often. Your dentist or dental hygienist can help you determine how often you should have your teeth cleaned.