Professional Dental Cleanings in Fort Myers FL removes bacterial deposits and protects the oral cavity against inflammation. Why is it just as important as the regular visit to the dentist? This short post explains the advantages and disadvantages of routine cleanings.
Protection against gingivitis, periodontitis, and tooth loss
A professional tooth cleaning is part of a dental hygiene regimen because it complements daily oral hygiene at home. When it comes to Dental Cleanings in Fort Myers, FL, the dentist examines the patient’s teeth and gums for cavities and inflammation. Teeth cleaning is usually performed by dental professionals, like dental assistants or dental hygienists.
All clinically visible and accessible plaque is removed, the teeth’s surface is polished and stabilized using a fluoride layer.
Especially important for the elderly, smokers, diabetics, and implant patients
A dental cleaning is recommended every six to twelve months. Patients should have their teeth professionally cleaned four times a year if they have problematic conditions like deep tooth pockets, cavities, particularly angular teeth, or perennial periodontitis. For example, older people, implant patients, diabetics, smokers and patients who take anti-saliva drugs such as antidepressants, blood pressure or antihistamines are also more susceptible to tooth and gum disease.
Patients at special risks, such as immunocompromised persons or patients with an artificial heart valve or myocarditis, a cleaning are performed with antibiotics or special disinfection agents. This helps to ensure that the released bacteria do not enter the bloodstream. Professional dental cleaning consists of the treatment steps listed below.
Plaque removal using ultrasound or scaler
Hard plaque develops from soft dental plaque, which solidifies over time by the storage of minerals. Tartar is located above the gum, called calculus, below the gum. Hard plaque is removed with an ultrasound machine or hand instruments such as scalers.
Soft plaque consists of leftover food or a biofilm. Biofilm is a thin layer of bacteria, proteins, electrolytes, and polysaccharides. It covers the teeth below and above the gums, adheres very strongly and can lead to gingivitis. Removal of this can be done with a toothbrush and floss.
After removing the plaque, the dentist will polish the patient’s teeth with a rotating rubber cup and abrasive paste. The resulting smooth surface impedes the attachment of foreign particles on the enamel. A fluoride gel or varnish is then applied to the polished teeth. To know more, visit Fort Myers Laser Dentistry.
