Dental Cleaning and Oral Hygiene

Oral and dental hygiene refers to the practice of keeping your mouth healthy and clean by following regular and correct brushing and flossing routines. This helps to prevent the formation of plaque, which is the sticky film of bacteria that forms on the hard surfaces of teeth, leading to dental decay and gum disease.
As a result of improper dental and oral hygiene, plaque accumulates on the hard surfaces of teeth; when you eat, the bacteria use the sugar and starch from your food to release acid. This acid:

• Corrodes the tooth enamel over time and results in holes or cavities in the tooth.
• Irritates the gums, resulting in bleeding, which leads to foul breath.

• Tartar or calculus. Constant accumulation of plaque as a result of irregular brushing and flossing results in the hardening of plaque into a yellow or brown mineral deposit called tartar or calculus. As a result of its crusty and rough surface, teeth then become ideal locations for further plaque growth. Tartar leads to gum disease when it is formed below the gumline.
• Gingivitis. This is the initial stage of gum disease and is characterized by:

• Inflammation of the gums.
• Painless bleeding during brushing and flossing

If treated with adequate dental care, it is reversible. If ignored, it can lead to a more serious and advanced form of gum disease called periodontitis.
Periodontitis. This is advanced gum disease, which leads to the destruction of structures supporting the teeth, including the bone; this causes the loosening of teeth, requiring their removal as a result. The signs of the condition are red, swollen, bleeding gums that shrink away from the teeth. The resulting widening spaces between the teeth and exposed root surfaces are highly vulnerable to decay.
We perform a thorough professional dental cleaning, as well as teach you how to continue to keep your smile healthy. Comfortable surroundings, exceptional care, and a welcoming staff are just a few of the reasons patients rank us as one of the top dental practices in Encino. And when you come for your dental cleaning appointment, you'll understand why. Your dental cleaning appointment will include:

• Tartar Removal — Calculus, or tartar, is hardened plaque that has firmly attached to the tooth surface. Calculus forms above and below the gum line and must be removed by a dental hygienist.

• Plaque Removal — Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on your teeth. It's a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva. If not periodically removed, the bacteria produce toxins that infect and inflame the gums, the warning signs of periodontal disease.

 

• Teeth Polishing — This removes stains and plaque that are not removed during tooth brushing and scaling.

• Home Care Instructions — You'll leave each dental visit with clear, easy-to-follow instructions on how to properly care for your teeth and continue to keep your winning smile - and a complimentary tooth brush!

To schedule a professional dental cleaning, please make an appointment  or contact our Encino office today.