Keeping the oral cavity clean and free from microbes is crucial in avoiding dental conditions such as cavities, gum diseases, bad breath, etc. But, irrespective of how well we brush and floss, the mouth could house thousands of microbes, and their number increases as the day progress. If optimum oral hygiene isn’t maintained, the microbes could get deposited on the teeth in the form of plaque, which later forms a hard and sticky substance called tartar or calculus.
Is tartar harmful?
Tartar is filled with harmful bacteria, which can upset your entire oral health. Cavities are predominantly caused by the acidic discharge released by the microbes when they feed on the food debris in the mouth. Also, the acidic substances can decay the soft gum tissues and cause gum diseases. Hence, we recommend getting tartar removed regularly by a professional dentist as it is challenging to get rid of it by regular brushing and flossing.
What does dental cleaning involve?
Dental cleaning involves two distinct procedures, namely scaling and root planing.
Scaling: It is the process of using a hand-held ultrasonic scaling device to remove the adhered tartar deposits from the teeth surfaces. The dentist will visually screen the teeth and locate the tartar deposits during the diagnosis. The scaling tool has a metal tip that vibrates at ultrasonic frequencies, which easily dislodges tartar. It is then washed away using a jet of water. The process doesn’t damage the teeth or cause any changes to its structure, making it non-invasive.
Root Planing: When you develop gum diseases, the gum line could recede, and the gum pockets could grow deeper. Due to this, the microbes may deposit on the tooth roots and form tartar, thereby making the gum disease worse. Hence, a hook-like scaling tip will be inserted between the gums and tooth roots, and the tartar will be scraped out. While doing so, the Dentist San Jose will also smoothen out the root surface to get rid of the imperfections. This prevents the deposit of microbes on it, thereby helping the gums heal effectively.
What are the advantages of a dental cleaning?
- Better-looking smile as the dark tartar deposits are removed
- Lesser chances of developing cavities
- Better gum health and lesser chances of developing gum diseases
- Fresher breath throughout the day
- Lesser chances of microbial deposition on the tooth roots
Reach out to Dentist in San Jose, CA by calling (408) 377-8200 or by scheduling an online appointment, and we’ll be happy to guide you further.