Why Do We Need Cleanings?

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Be honest: When did you last have your teeth professionally cleaned? To most people, a cleaning seems like a minor procedure. After all, if you brush and floss do you really even need this procedure? Why do we need dental cleanings? In reality, this preventive treatment protects your smile from serious oral health issues.

North Richland Hills, TX Dental Cleaning Quiz

  1. True or False: You should have a cleaning multiple times a year.
  2. True or False: We also perform a checkup beforehand.
  3. True or False: This procedure can reduce gum disease risk.
  4. True or False: We can use a deep cleaning to manage periodontal disease.

Answer Key

  1. True. The American Dental Association recommends all adults have their teeth cleaned routinely. At our office, we encourage patients to have their teeth looked at every three to four months. This procedure involves our team removing plaque from the surface of the teeth, polishing the teeth afterward.
  2. True. We usually perform a checkup in conjunction with a cleaning. During a checkup we look for any possible indicators of serious oral health problems, including gum disease, tooth decay, signs of TMJ disorder or bruxism, and oral cancer. We also recommend an exam once every three to four months.
  3. True. Plaque can cause the gums to become inflamed, leading to the onset of gum disease. By removing plaque we reduce your risk of developing this serious gum issue.
  4. True. In some cases, a more thorough cleaning is needed to manage gum disease. With a deep cleaning we perform a scaling and root planing to remove plaque from the teeth and the surface of the roots.

ABOUT YOUR NORTH RICHLAND HILLS DENTIST:

With over 25 years of professional experience, Dr. Steven M. Huffstutler and his caring team proudly provide exceptional preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dental treatment to patients and their families across Dallas/Ft. Worth, including North Richland Hills, Denton, the Mid-cities, Southlake, and all surrounding communities. We also have extensive experience helping patients find relief from painful TMJ disorders (various forms of jaw dysfunction). To schedule an appointment with Dr. Huffstutler, contact our office today by calling 817-918-3038.