Cleaning

Why do I need to come in for cleanings? 

Over time, the bacteria in the food you eat accumulates in pockets inside your mouth, on your gums, and between your teeth. If it’s not removed, that bacteria turns into plaque and tartar that builds up around your gum line and causes inflammation to the soft tissue that holds your teeth together. 

You brush and floss your teeth at home to keep your mouth clean and rid of harmful bacteria. However, you also need to come in regularly for professional cleanings to remove the plaque and tartar that you miss. Professional cleanings are essential for a number of reasons: 

• Keeping your breath fresh
• Limiting your risk of tooth decay and gum disease
• Detecting any oral health problems early
• Keeping your teeth white and healthy-looking

There’s also a strong link between your oral health and your cardiovascular health. Medical research has shown that regular dental cleanings help limit your risk for heart disease and stroke. In the long run, regular dental cleanings will both save you money and help improve your overall health.

What does a cleaning involve? 

During your cleaning, Dr. Gregory performs a full mouth debridement to remove all plaque and tartar buildup around your gum line. He uses special dental instruments to carefully get rid of any bacteria that has built up. He also performs a comprehensive evaluation of your teeth and gums to make sure there aren’t any problems that require more dental work. 

Dr. Gregory uses scaling prophy jet air abrasion as his primary technique to remove plaque, tartar, and mild tooth staining. This method uses a water-soluble sodium bicarbonate mixture rather than digging around your teeth with a scaler. It’s a more efficient tool and produces better results. 

After cleaning your teeth, Dr. Gregory applies a final polish. He may offer tips on how to better care for your teeth and gums, based on what he sees during your cleaning. 

How often should I get a cleaning? 

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends coming in for a cleaning twice a year. Dr. Gregory typically agrees and has patients come in every six months for a cleaning and routine checkup. However, in some cases, you might need to come in more frequently, depending on factors such as your overall health, your oral health history, and your age. 

If it’s time for you to schedule your next cleaning with Dr. Gregory, call the office or book an appointment online today.