Professional cleanings conducted every six months are important for overall dental health—even for those who brush their teeth thoroughly twice a day and floss regularly. The hygienist can remove built-up plaque and tartar in hard to reach spaces that even brushing and flossing can miss. That means regular cleanings help prevent cavities and the onset of gum disease. It also means that regular cleanings are even more important for people who may be have less-than-deal ideal oral hygiene practices.

If you experience tartar build-up at a faster rate than the average person, it’s possible that the frequency of your cleanings may need to be increased.

Don’t forget that if you have dental insurance, most plans cover two cleanings per year. Also, professionally cleaned teeth feel great, look better, and leave you with the satisfaction that you’ve done a good deed not only for your teeth but also for your overall health.

You’re not alone! Whether it’s been 6 months or 6 years, it’s never too late to get back into the routine.

At our dental office, we can arrange for you to have a thorough and educational exam appointment. We have been taking care of people just like you for over 30 years – take advantage of our experience! We’re here to help!

Bad breath generally comes from improper oral hygiene. The most common culprit is fairly easy to understand: Food particles that remain in your mouth for long periods of time are broken down by bacteria. That process produces sulfur compounds in your mouth that—you guessed it—smell unpleasant. Other causes for bad breath can include smoking and tooth decay.
To control bad breath, the simplest advice is to brush and floss regularly. Additionally, staying hydrated, and thereby preventing a dry mouth, will also help to reduce mouth odor.

Yes, more serious health problems can be linked to bad breath, but in the majority of cases, bad breath is due to the reasons described above. If you have questions or concerns about bad breath, be sure to bring them up with your dentist.

If you use a manual toothbrush properly, including brushing with good technique for two to three minutes twice a day, it can be just as effective as an electric toothbrush. Note, however, that proper use of a manual toothbrush, especially brushing long enough, often doesn’t happen. Children, in particular, may benefit from an electric toothbrush because they are more likely to have poorer brushing habits. Also, for those with arthritis or other problems with hand dexterity, an electric toothbrush can be a helpful alternative to a manual one. If you have questions on toothbrushes or the proper way to brush your teeth, be sure to ask your dentist.

Plaque is a film that accumulates naturally on your teeth every day. Unfortunately, excess plaque can lead to serious dental problems. Composed largely of bacteria, plaque can react with the residue of food and beverages you’ve consumed and release acids that gradually damage the enamel of your teeth and cause cavities.
Without consistent brushing and flossing, plaque that remains on your teeth eventually will harden and become calculus, also known as tartar. This substance generally requires a dentist or dental hygienist for its removal. More importantly, as plaque and tartar build up on your teeth, your gums can become swollen and tender, which is an early symptom of gum disease. As gum disease progresses, it can break down and destroy the tissue and bone that support your teeth. Research has even indicated a link between gum disease and other serious health problems like stroke, heart disease, pneumonia, and complications in pregnancy.

You can combat plaque problems by brushing twice a day and flossing daily, minimizing sugary foods and beverages, and seeing your dentist for regular check-ups and cleanings.

Start by brushing your teeth at a 45 degree angle towards the gum lines and on all tooth surfaces with two finger pressure in a gentle circular motion for two minutes. Make sure to remove any plaque.

Once daily in the evening. More if you’d like!

At a dental check-up you can expect to update a health history in the beginning. Any recommended x-rays will be taken to evaluate your dental health. If you are scheduled for a teeth cleaning, a dental hygienist will clean your teeth, review hygiene habits, and review at home care. The dentist will come in for an exam and evaluate any treatment needed. You should leave your appointment understanding any treatment discussed and with an idea of your dental benefit

Demineralization and bacteria are the main reasons for tooth decay. Other factors are home care diet (eating and drinking), ongoing health issues, and lack of home care.