Clean teeth are an important part of good oral health and overall wellness. Three things you can do to ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy are to brush, floss, and get regular professional cleanings from your dentist. At the Honolulu dental office of Dr. Stephen R. Ho, we perform both deep cleanings and routine cleanings.
Deep Cleanings and Gum Disease
If you haven’t seen a dentist for years, a deep cleaning may be in order. This is especially the case if you suffer from gum disease or its predecessor, gingivitis. Both gingivitis and gum disease are caused by an accumulation of bacteria, which adheres to the teeth as plaque — a sticky film that can’t be removed with brushing and flossing alone. Symptoms of gingivitis and gum disease include:
- Tender and/or inflamed gums
- Bleeding gums when brushing and/or flossing
- Tooth decay
- Bad breath
Dr. Ho will examine your teeth and gums to see if any bacterial overgrowth or disease is present. If so, then a deep cleaning is in order. More complex cases may be divided into two or more dental visits. The deep cleaning process includes scaling and root planing to remove the stubborn bacteria. In cases of infection, a course of antibiotics may be necessary. Regular follow-ups — usually spaced three or four months apart — will be scheduled to make sure the problem remains under control.
Routine Cleanings for Disease Prevention
Routine cleanings are done every six months. When you visit our Honolulu dental practice for a routine cleaning, your teeth and gums will be examined in detail to look for evidence of gingivitis, gum disease, and tooth decay. The teeth and gums will then be thoroughly cleaned and any plaque buildup will be removed. Some patients will receive a fluoride treatment or dental sealant to protect the teeth, depending on when they last had such a treatment. Regular checkups and routine cleanings are the best way to prevent gum disease and maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Schedule Your Cleaning Today
To schedule your routine or deep cleaning with Dr. Ho and his friendly staff, give us a call or use our appointment request form. In addition to cleanings and preventative dentistry, we also provide cosmetic dentistry services, orthodontics, restorations, and more in our modern Honolulu dental office. We look forward to taking care of your dental health needs!
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