Many of us expect to have our teeth cleaned by our dental provider as part of our routine oral examinations and checkups. This is a very important piece of preventive dentistry because regular cleanings remove the plaque and tartar that can build up on teeth between appointments. Sometimes there are issues that a routine cleaning can’t completely correct. What can be done in that case?
Going Beyond Routine Teeth Cleaning (Prophylaxis)
A routine prophylaxis treatment deals with plaque and tartar that have built up above and down to the gumline. When plaque and tartar persist below the gum line, and in cases of established gum disease, we offer a procedure called scaling and root planing. In this procedure, we use instruments specifically designed to remove the buildup below the gumline.
In a two-step process, we scrape the teeth and roots to remove the plaque and tartar. We then smooth any rough areas on your teeth (root planing). Removing the rough surfaces discourages the reformation of the plaque and tartar below the gumline. With the material removed, your gums can heal and reestablish a normal tight seal with your teeth.
Be Vigilant to Prevent Plaque and Tartar Buildup
Avoiding future plaque and tartar buildup will require that you continue your diligent care routine. If you have suffered from gum disease in the past you now may be more vulnerable. We may recommend that you return to our office more frequently so we can monitor your teeth and gums closely and catch any new problem before it becomes a bigger issue.
Maintaining a regular schedule of routine examinations and cleaning will allow us to catch any problems early. At Dental Solutions of Mississippi, we are ready to serve your needs. If you are in Canton, Mississippi, or the surrounding area, contact our office to schedule your exam and cleaning today.