During a preventative cleaning, plaque and tartar is removed from around your gum line and in between your teeth. For optimal oral health, a routine preventative cleaning should be performed twice per year to help avoid gum disease.
What is gum disease?
Gum disease occurs when enough bacteria builds in the mouth to cause your gums to become inflamed. Gum disease can vary in severity, from gingivitis to more severe forms of periodontitis. Left untreated, periodontitis can cause bone loss and gum recession and even tooth loss. To diagnose gum disease, your dentist and hygienist perform a thorough assessment to classify the severity and extent of bone loss. Bleeding, overall health status and risk factors are also considered.
How do I maintain good oral health?
Understanding proper brushing and flossing techniques and eating a well-balanced diet can go a long way toward preventing cavities. It’s also essential to maintain routine dental visits to help remove tartar build-up and detect any potential problems before they worsen. This can even help you save money by avoiding costly dental treatments down the road.