Hygiene And Polishing

Preventive care in a dental office includes prophylaxis, or the cleaning of the teeth. During this procedure plaque and tartar are removed from all teeth. Polishing of teeth employs a low-speed hand piece with a rubber cup tip mounted on the top that contains a polishing paste that is made of ingredients ideal for removing stains. Regular brushing and flossing alone cannot remove plaque below the gum line. Without routine hygiene appointments, plaque below the gum line is removed and patients can enjoy healthier teeth for a lifetime.  

Sometimes patients will ask why they need regular dental cleanings. There are several reasons why it is important to have a professional dental cleaning by an accredited Aliso Viejo Dentist. For example, coming in for regular hygiene visits allows the doctor to catch dental problems like gum disease, cavities and oral cancer in its early stages. The earlier you catch any medical problem, the easier it is to treat. The treatment is also generally more successful if you catch the problem early.

Another reason to have regular dental cleanings would be to remove tartar and plaque below the gum line as mentioned above. If this is not done on a regular basis, the patient could be a lot more susceptible to gum disease. Gum disease is the leading cause of adult tooth loss. Some patients who are more prone to gum problems may need cleanings as often as 4 times a year. There are numerous studies showing that poor oral health is linked to an increased risk of heart disease and strokes. Regular oral hygiene visits can help eliminate this risk.

One more possible benefit to consistent dental cleaning visits would be to maximize your insurance benefits. Many insurance policies require a patient to have regular cleanings and checkups for them to pay a higher percentage on a person's dental treatment. One last reason to see a professional for a dental cleaning would be to help prevent bad breath. Studies show that 85% of people with halitosis have a dental problem causing the odor.