Nothing feels better than having bright, fresh teeth after a professional cleaning.
But tooth cleaning is about more than just appearances. It is one of the most effective ways to prevent cavities and gum disease. We at Golden Heart Dental, encourage you to schedule your routine cleanings every six months to maintain a clean and healthy smile.
Nothing feels better than having bright, fresh teeth after a professional cleaning.
But tooth cleaning is about more than just appearances. It is one of the most effective ways to prevent cavities and gum disease. We at Golden Heart Dental, encourage you to schedule your routine cleanings every six months to maintain a clean and healthy smile.
Why do I need dental cleanings?
Professional cleanings keep your healthy teeth and lower your risks of developing tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, and even tooth loss. Cleanings help prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar, which are the leading causes of gum disease.
If you have not had your teeth cleaned in some time, it's not too late to start. Inflamed, swollen, or bleeding gums, may indicate gingivitis, the first stage of gum disease. The good news is that professional cleanings coupled with proper oral hygiene practices at home can stop the progression, or even reverse gingivitis.
If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, potentially resulting in oral and health problems. Studies have uncovered a link between periodontal disease and an elevated risk of heart disease, strokes, diabetes, and more.
What does a cleaning involve?
A dental hygienist typically uses an instrument called a scaler to remove plaque or tartar buildup around and under your gumline and in between your teeth. Next is polishing your teeth and flossing them, leaving them clean and minty fresh.
Ultrasonic Cleanings
Dr. Miller and her team are proud to offer gentle, quick cleanings using ultrasonic scalers. Electromagnetic forces cause rapid vibrations of the scaler’s tiny tip, effectively blasting away plaque, tartar, and surface tooth stains. The unit also delivers a small stream of water or mouthwash to flush away debris. The vibrating tip breaks the water into millions of tiny bubbles, which creates an environment less hospitable to harmful bacteria.
Caring for your teeth at home
Make sure to maintain proper oral hygiene practices including regular brushing and flossing. This will help remove plaque and prevent it from hardening to tartar, which can only be removed at a dentist’s office.
Video: An Alternative to Floss
Dr. Miller discusses how to keep your gums clean and healthy using a water flosser.
Quality care in Fairbanks, AK
Contact Golden Heart Dental to schedule your professional exam and cleaning. Dr. Miller and her team are committed to providing quality, gentle care to help keep your smile clean and healthy. We look forward to caring for all your dental needs. We are located in Fairbanks, AK. We often serve patients coming from the Fairbanks, Ester, and North Pole area of east-central Alaska. Call us today at 907-328-0868 to request an appointment!