Teeth Cleanings


Dental cleanings are typically a patients favorite appointment in a dental office. Beyond just making your teeth shine and feel squeaky clean, a prophylaxis (the technical term) is used to promote a healthy dentition and gum health.  

Most people don't realize what happens when they miss a cleaning or two.  First an foremost tartar builds up!!!  Dental plaques are soft and easily removed at home with proper brushing and flossing techniques.  However, tartar is calcified and adheres to the teeth so well that no amount of brushing or flossing will do the job.  This is where your dentist or dental hygienist come into play.  There are specialized dental instruments that can remove these deposits.  This is not just important for helping removed stains caused by dental tartar, but also to remove the colonies of bacteria living on these hard deposits.  If these continue to grow, over time it can lead to gum disease such as gingivitis or even periodontal disease.  If you aren't familiar with these terms you don't want to be!!! Gingivitis is common and can be treated and reversed, but once peridontal disease causes damage it can never be undone. 

This is why it is best to stay on a regular dental cleaning cycle even if you have excellent home care.  Also, your dentist also gets a chance to perform a periodic dental examination.  If you would happen to develop a cavity it is always best to catch it small and before symptoms arise.  When it starts to hurt, it can be much more costly and invasive of a problem to fix.  

If you are past due by a couple of weeks, months, or even years don't hesitate ot make an appointment with Dr. Grooms.  He can evaluate your dental condition and place your on a regular cleaning or gum therapy treatment that will help your obtain and maintain a healthy mouth.

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