Some people wonder if routine dental cleanings are worth the time and expense. Isn't the better question, "Can you put a price on your oral
and systemic health?" At Sebastian River Dentistry in Sebastian, FL, your dentist, Dr. Mark Peterson, adheres to American Dental Association guidelines: get twice a year professional cleanings and examinations. You'll discover the benefits in a long-lasting, healthy smile.
You and your mouth
Your oral tissues are loaded with bacteria. When you eat--particularly carbohydrate-rich beverages and foods--you give those bacteria the perfect environment in which to grow. As your saliva combines with food residues on and between your teeth and below the gum tissue, plaque forms, bacteria thrives and hard calculus accumulates.
Brushing twice a day with a quality toothpaste and flossing once a day removes a lot of plaque and prevents tartar formation, but at-home oral hygiene doesn't do it all. Your dental hygienist at Sebastian River Dentistry combines her hands-on scaling skills and visual vigilance to keep teeth and gums clean and healthy.
Tartar--so what?
Why you should keep ahead of biofilms such as plaque and tartar. Both cause tooth decay because their hidden bacteria secrete enamel-eating acids. Left unchecked, cavities form, and here's something many people don't realize: the same bacteria cause dangerous gum disease.
Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss among Americans, says the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. When gums bleed and recede because of tartar, teeth invariably loosen, and gum and bone deteriorate.
Additional benefits of regular cleanings
At your six-month cleaning, Dr. Peterson will:
- Check for signs of tooth decay or oral health problems
- Take X-rays as scheduled
- Show you ways to keep your teeth clean
- Chart your restorations, gum pocket depth and more
At Sebastian River Dentistry, your teeth and gums will receive the best of care. Please don't neglect your dental cleanings as they are a simple, reliable way to keep your smile healthy and bright. Call today for your routine appointment, won't you? Phone (772) 388-3119.