Have you ever brushed your teeth, and your gums started to bleed? If you can relate, it may be time to schedule an appointment for dental cleaning near you at our office.
Think about it. When was the last time that you scheduled a dental cleaning in Somerset? If it was over a year ago, you should schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
On average, specialists recommend scheduling dental cleanings in Silverado at a dental clinic near you every six months, but it will depend on your particular case. If you are a low-risk patient (you have never had cavities and you maintain an excellent oral care routine), you should visit a dentist near you once a year.
On the other hand, if you are a high-risk patient, you may visit your dental professional every three to four months. High-risk patients may be:
- Smokers
- Pregnant women
- Patients with periodontal disease
- Patients who develop many cavities
- People with a medical condition that puts their oral health at risk, such as diabetes
Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a condition that starts with gingivitis. Gingivitis is the first stage of gum disease. When you suffer from it, you may experience the following signs:
- Your gums bleed while you brush and floss your teeth
- Your gums feel sore
- Your gums look prominent and red
- Your gums are receding
If untreated, you may suffer from periodontitis, which is a condition that affects your bone and connective tissues that support your teeth. If you suffer from periodontitis, you will notice these signs:
- Your teeth are shifting
- Your gums are about four mm below your gum line
- You feel random dental pain
- You feel sensitivity to cold and hot temperatures
- Your gums bleed when you bite, chew, brush, or floss your teeth
If this is familiar, consider visiting your dental professional as soon as possible. They will evaluate your mouth to determine the proper treatment.
Prevention is the key to optimal oral health, which is why you should visit your dental hygienist as often as your dentist has recommended, to avoid periodontal disease rather than waiting until you are in pain.
Teeth Cleaning
Teeth cleaning is a procedure that your dental hygienist performs to keep your gums and teeth healthy and remove tartar and plaque build-up. Dental plaque is a sticky film that consists of debris, food particles, and bacteria, and it starts to form about 6 hours after you brush your teeth, which is why we recommend brushing your teeth at least twice a day. If you skip out on brushing, the plaque hardens and mineralizes and becomes tartar. You will not be able to remove tartar from your teeth, so you will need to make a trip to the dentist to avoid further issues.
The Procedure
If your gums are inflamed, your dental hygienist will use a dental instrument called a scaler to remove the plaque from your teeth’s surface. It will make your teeth bright and your gums healthy. If your gums are receding and you have a deep pocket, root planing will be necessary. They will use an instrument to plan your roots and achieve a smooth surface.
If you feel any pain, your dental hygienist may freeze your gums for more comfort.
Healing Time
After your dental hygienist cleans your mouth, your gums will reattach around your teeth in about four to eight weeks. It is essential that you brush your teeth twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss them, avoid acidic and sugary foods, and visit your dentist regularly to maintain optimal oral health and healthy gums.