Topeka ProDental | Dentist in Topeka, Kansas
THERE IS NO DOUBT that daily brushing and flossing are essential. But regular professional cleanings from your dentist in Topeka are crucial, no matter your age. Teeth cleanings should be done by your dentist twice a year.
WHAT IS A DENTAL CLEANING PROCEDURE?
A dental cleaning by a dentist typically begins with a physical exam of the mouth, X-rays, and periodontal screening. These screenings are essential for checking the gums for inflammation, bleeding, and sensitivity.
After the exam, hard calcified bacteria deposits (tartar) that coat the teeth and gums are removed using scalers and ultrasonic instruments. Once the teeth are clean, your dentist will polish them and apply a fluoride treatment to strengthen them.
WHAT ARE THE 4 BENEFITS OF DENTAL CLEANINGS BY YOUR DENTIST?
Regular teeth cleanings keep smiles looking bright and boast many benefits to oral and general health. Here are some reasons why professional dental cleanings by a dentist in Topeka are essential.
#1 Early detection of dental problems
During a cleaning at Topeka ProDental, patients may receive X-rays to check the condition of the teeth, roots, and jaw for unseen problems with an oral exam. The X-rays show the position of the teeth and can help determine if there is a need for braces and indicate any infections, cysts, or tumors.
#2 Prevents cavities and gum disease
During a dental cleaning, plaque and tartar are removed. If plaque builds up, it hardens into tartar along the gum line, which causes tooth decay. The bacteria in plaque is full of acid that eats at tooth enamel, eventually leading to cavities.
Periodontal disease starts when plaque builds up. The bacteria in the plaque infect the gums around and below the gum line. Your dentist in Topeka removes this plaque during the cleaning, which reduces the risk of developing gum disease.
#3 No more halitosis
Halitosis, or bad breath, is not necessarily from eating a bit of garlic but is almost always caused by an underlying dental issue. Plaque harbors harmful-smelling bacteria. If not removed, it creates terrible breath, which is uncomfortable for everyone involved.
#4 Improves overall health
Untreated infections and cavities can lead to the loss of a tooth. However, dental health issues do not end there. Bad oral conditions where bacteria thrive contribute to many other diseases and health problems.
Gum disease can increase the risk of heart disease. The bacteria in the gums may lead to the narrowing of arteries. Endocarditis is an infection that affects the heart’s inner lining. It’s a bacteria that spreads through the bloodstream from somewhere else in the body, such as the gums.
Bacteria in the mouth can spread into the lungs to cause bronchitis or even pneumonia. Gum disease worsens chronic lung diseases such as asthma because of the inflammation in the airways. Untreated gum infections have even been linked to premature labor.
Visit Your Dentist in Topeka
Routine dental care by your dentist in Topeka is vital to oral health and overall health. Don’t wait too long for a deep clean and exam. It can help identify problems early and nip them in the bud before a severe problem and pain starts. See us at Topeka ProDental, in Topeka, Kansas, for the best preventive dentistry around.
