A healthy smile is not just about brushing and flossing your teeth every day, it is about having the knowledge of the factors leading to the accumulation of plaque and how frequent professional cleaning is extremely important to the health of the mouth. In case you have been trying to find a dental clinic near you in Duncan, this guide provides the science behind the plaque and how regular cleanings are essential in maintaining good health of your teeth and gums.
What Is a Dental Plaque?
Dental plaque is soft sticky material that is always formed on your teeth. It consists of food particles, saliva and bacteria. The bacteria in plaque secrete acids which destroy your tooth enamel when you eat sugary or starchy foods. In the long run, it may cause tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath.
The formation of plaque starts several hours following the process of brushing and this is the reason why oral hygiene is so critical. Otherwise, the plaque is hardened into tartar (calculus) unless it is removed by regular brushing, flossing, and arranging dental cleaning. Tartar is impossible to take place at home and has to be removed with the help of special dental instruments.
The Science Behind Plaque Formation
The formation of plaque occurs in a number of phases. This starts when the natural proteins that are present in your saliva coats your teeth to allow bacteria to cling to them. These bacterial species are able to grow at an alarming rate and develop into colonies that consume the remains of food carbohydrates. Since they break down sugars, they produce acids which demineralize the enamel.
It is the bacterial biofilm, in which we live, that offers a protective environment for bacteria to thrive. This viscous coating also entraps food particles, which contributes to the further growth of the bacteria. In the absence of an intervention, the accumulation of plaque results in gingivitis (inflammation of the gum) and can continue to periodontitis, a more serious form of gum infection that involves the bone your teeth are attached to.
Why Regular Dental Cleanings Are Essential
Despite good oral health, one can hardly clear all the plaque and tartar at home. Dental cleanings and checkups near you in Duncan are necessary that way. In a professional cleaning, your dentist or hygienist uses special equipment to clean the teeth and the gumline of the tooth of plaque and tartar.
The hard deposits are broken down with the aid of ultrasonic scalers and hand instruments, and the surface stains are removed with the help of polishing, rendering the enamel less prone to adhering to the plaque. Frequent examinations also enable your dentist to identify the early signs of cavities, gum disease or other problems in the mouth before deteriorating.
The Benefits of Routine Dental Cleanings
Regular cleanings have several advantages other than a white smile. Cleanings prevent or minimize the development of gum diseases, tooth decay and the elimination of bacteria that cause bad breath. They also help enhance healthier gums, which are also necessary to maintain good teeth and to avoid loss of bone.
Besides, an oral cavity with a clean and smooth tooth surface is not only aesthetically pleasing, but also contributes to the well-being of the body. It has been observed that poor oral health is correlated to other systemic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory diseases. That is why having a clean mouth can have a positive influence on your general well-being.
How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?
A majority of the dental practitioners advise a six-month cleaning. Nonetheless, certain people, particularly those who tend to accumulate plaque, have gum disease, or who have orthodontic devices, might be required to visit the dentist more regularly. Your dentist is in a position to examine the condition of your oral health and prescribe an individual schedule according to your needs.
Conclusion: Keep Your Smile Clean without the Help of a Pro.
Learning the science of the plaque will make you value the need to be proactive in care. Regular dentist visits do not only ensure your teeth are in good shape, but also safeguard your future oral and well-being health. To have a healthier smile, you should make a visit to Cowichan Valley Dental Group, a reputable dental clinic in Duncan. They have a trained staff that offers you oral health routines and checkups in Duncan to keep your teeth clean, strong and without any accumulation of harmful plaque.
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