We’ve all heard how important it is to visit your dentist regularly for a good dental cleaning. In our Lombard, IL, practice, we use these visits to protect your smile and ensure your oral health is optimal. Think of a dental cleaning as preventative care for your mouth.
During a cleaning, Dr. Julie Glud can perform a comprehensive exam to assess your teeth, gums, and jawbone to determine if you have any underlying issues. The sooner she detects issues, the better your chance of preventing more extensive problems. As a bonus, you can enjoy a better-looking, healthier smile. You’ll loving showing off your pearly whites to everybody you come across.
What Does the Dentist Check?
A dental hygienist performs a dental cleaning to enhance your oral hygiene. The cleaning goes beyond your at-home routine by removing plaque and tartar that can be harmful to your oral health.
Plaque is a thin, sticky film that accumulates on your teeth and gum. The film attracts a whole host of bacteria and acids that can do major damage to your mouth. Once the plaque becomes tartar, it can only be professionally removed.
Tartar and plaque can cause gum disease. As the infection continues, it can penetrate down to the jawbone and cause loose teeth. If left untreated, patients can experience tooth loss.By removing the plaque and tartar, your teeth are left cleaner and healthier.
During the dental cleaning, your hygienist removes surface stains by polishing your teeth. Polishing smoothes the surface of your teeth and removed more plaque. You’ll also receive a fluoride application to strengthen your teeth. Additionally, restorations,such as crowns, implants, and dentures, are checked and cleaned to ensure they’re looking and performing their best. Afterward, your mouth is left refreshed and renewed.
What Happens if I Have an Underlying Issue?
If the dentist discovers any problems with your oral health during the cleaning and exam, there are various treatments available. If you have cavities, the dentist removes the decay and places a filling. The tooth is left restored and stronger to improve appearance and function.
If you have gum disease, Dr. Glud might perform scaling and root planing to remove plaque and tartarbeyond the gum line. The treatment provides a deep cleaning to help prevent the recurrence of bacteria.
How Often Should I Have a Cleaning?
For most patients, they need a cleaning at least twice yearly. However, patients with dental problems might need more frequent cleanings. Your doctor will provide you with the most appropriate schedule for your oral care needs.
How Do I Maintain My Oral Health?
During the dental exam, you and Dr. Glud will discuss your oral habits. Although you should be brushing and flossing at least twice daily, the dentist can provide a customized hygiene regimen. This is also a great time to get recommendations on the best toothbrushes, toothpaste, and products you should use to meet your goals.
Schedule a Consultation
When it is time for a dental cleaning, Dental Care of Lombard is a great choice. Please call our office at 630-629-5700 to schedule a check-up to ensure a happy, healthy mouth.
