It only takes twenty four hours for plaque that is not
removed from your teeth to turn into calculus (tartar)!
Daily home cleaning helps control plaque and tartar
formation, but those hard to reach areas will always need
special attention.
Once your periodontal treatment has been completed, your
dentist and dental hygienist will recommend that you have
regular maintenance cleanings (periodontal cleanings),
usually four times a year. At these cleaning appointments,
the pocket depths will be carefully checked to ensure that
they are healthy. Plaque and calculus that is difficult for
you to remove on a daily basis will be removed from above
and below the gum line.
In addition to your periodontal cleaning and evaluation,
your appointment will usually include:
Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs): Essential
for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss.X-rays
also help determine tooth and root positions.
Examination of existing restorations: Check current
fillings, crowns, etc.
Examination of tooth decay: Check all tooth surfaces for
decay.
Oral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue,
throat, cheek tissues, and gums for any signs of oral
cancer.
Oral hygiene recommendations: Review and recommend oral
hygiene aids as needed. (Electric toothbrushes, special
periodontal brushes, fluorides, rinses, etc.)
Teeth polishing: Remove stain and plaque that is not
otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.
Good oral hygiene practices and periodontal cleanings are
essential in maintaining dental health and keeping
periodontal disease under control!
