The old saying “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” holds especially true when it comes to dental health. Although brushing and flossing at home are effective ways of keeping teeth healthy, a routine professional cleaning can deliver results that patient’s can not often get from their own efforts. Just as drivers who change their own oil and spark plugs still take their cars in for an annual inspection, patients should also get their teeth “inspected” at least twice a year.
Our friendly and professional dental hygienists will carry out the procedure, which often takes less than an hour. The hygienists will use small, well-honed metal tools to scrape away plaque deposits that form on the teeth. These tools can access areas that brushing and flossing can’t reach. The hygienists use their experience and training to reach these spots, while taking care to prevent any pain or damage to the tooth enamel.
Once the hygienist has removed the plaque, the next step involves the application of a tooth polisher with a small rotary buffer. The buffer applies the polish, which also contains fluoride and other ingredients to prevent cavities, and gives the teeth a healthy shine while removing the last stray particles.
After the cleaning procedure, the dentist will inspect the teeth and gums for any problems. If he finds any causes for concern, he may schedule an appointment to examine the problem and determine a treatment course. If the patient shows signs of cavities, the dentist may apply a sealant mixture on and around the tooth surface to protect the neighboring teeth.
The keys to preventing cavities rest with the patient. The dentists at Houston Medical Center Dental advise patients to maintain a routine of brushing and flossing at least twice a day. A healthy diet, free of sugars and acid-heavy foods, can also prevent tooth decay.
If you need a cleaning, examination or have any questions on our procedures, contact the Houston Medical Center Dental offices today!
