Teeth CleaningsModern dental technology allows dental professionals to implement many cutting-edge procedures to repair and maintain your smile. A far easier way to keep your smile looking great and avoid needing additional procedures is to receive regular professional dental cleanings. Our team at Osborne Dentistry can perform routine maintenance during your cleaning, which includes checking for early warning signs of decay or disease. We will also provide feedback on your oral hygiene habits and help you learn how to take the best care of your teeth and gums. Our professionals will also obtain X-rays of your oral cavity during your dental cleanings so we can best treat you and get a complete picture of your gums, teeth, and jawbone. Why Do I Need Professional Dental Cleanings?The primary reason that you need dental cleanings is for the prevention of decay and disease. Our team understands that no one perfectly cleans their teeth every time that they brush, which means you are likely missing small pockets of plaque. Over time this plaque can harden into tartar. During your cleaning, our professionals will remove all of this plaque and tartar. The plaque is removed through the use of flossing and a commercial-grade toothbrush. The tartar cannot be removed with regular brushing and has to be removed with metal hand tools. By allowing our team to remove this build-up, you are protecting yourself from decay and gum disease. Professional cleanings are also important for the early detection of disease. Our team checks your mouth for signs of gum disease during your routine cleanings. We also complete an oral cancer screening. If any abnormalities are detected, our team will work with you to develop a treatment plan. How Often Do I Need Cleanings?The general recommendations set forth by the American Dental Association are that individuals receive a professional cleaning and exam every six months. Some patients may require more frequent cleanings if our team is treating you for certain conditions. For example, if you are receiving non-surgical treatment for gum disease, our team may recommend that you receive a cleaning every three months. What Else Should I Do to Care for My Teeth?In addition to receiving regular professional cleanings, it is important that you practice good oral hygiene practices at home. This includes brushing your teeth twice per day for at least two minutes per session. You must also floss daily to remove any plaque that has become trapped between your teeth. When you come in for your cleaning, our professionals can address these home habits with you in greater detail. We can help you select the right toothbrush and toothpaste. We will also let you know if we see any negative patterns in your brushing habits based on plaque or tartar accumulation. If you are overdue for your latest cleaning or looking to get established with a team of dental professionals that you can trust, then it is time to come see us at Osborne Dentistry. We can get you back on track to the road to a lifetime of bright smiles and healthy gums. You can schedule your appointment by calling our office at 541-451-4300 today. |