Maintain Good Oral Health With Professional Teeth Cleanings

Maintain Good Oral Health With Professional Teeth Cleanings

Are tooth decay and gum disease preventable? In large part, they are, say dental experts, and prophylactic services, such as professional teeth cleanings from your Batavia, IL, dentist help. At Elliff Dental, Drs. Andrew and Laura Elliff and their dedicated team praise the many benefits of six-month check-ups and cleanings. These in-office treatments partner with conscientious at-home care to keep smiles at their very best.

Your teeth and gums

Frankly, they are loaded with an acid-producing bacteria called Streptococcus mutans. These microbes especially collects in soft, sticky plaque and the hard tartar which form from the carb-based foods we consume. While heredity, alcohol consumption, smoking and other factors affect biofilm formation, poor oral hygiene really encourages the accumulation of plaque and tartar. Over time, cavities and periodontitis result.

However, when you eat a low-sugar diet and brush and floss diligently at home (the American Dental Association advises twice daily brushing and once daily flossing), smiles fare much, much better. Add the thoroughness of a professional cleaning at your dentist's office in Batavia, IL, and your teeth and gums can thrive.

What happens at an examination and cleaning

First, your hygienist will review your medical history and update it as needed. Next, they'll examine your teeth and gums and measure your gum pockets (the spaces between your teeth and gums). Then, they will scale your teeth with ultrasonic and handheld instruments.

Dental scaling gently scrapes away plaque and tartar which builds up in places you cannot reach with your floss and brush. Interdental spaces and back molars are notorious for plaque and tartar formation. The hygienist also flosses your teeth and polishes them with a fine grit toothpaste and special rotary brush. So, not only will your teeth be very clean, they'll feel that way, too!

When Dr. Elliff does your examination, he or she will look for:

  • Decay
  • Signs of gum disease
  • The condition of previous restorative work such as fillings and crowns
  • Signs of oral cancer (this is a quick and painless visual check)
  • Uneven enamel wear
  • Jaw joint problems
  • Bite issues

When should you have your teeth cleaned?

Usually, it's recommended every six months. However, people who are prone to gum disease may need more frequent cleanings to maintain gum health. Your care plan will be tailored to meet your individual needs.

Contact us

Please phone Elliff Dental in Batavia, IL, to arrange your routine cleaning and check-up with your dentist. Your smile will thank you for it. Call (630) 482-7200.