Professional Dental Cleaning and Home Care
Professional Dental Hygiene
Protecting the pearly whites
Professional dental cleaning, conducted by a hygienist, removes plaque, tartar, and stains from teeth using specialized tools. This process helps prevent cavities, gum disease, and bad breath by addressing buildup that brushing and flossing alone may miss. It also polishes teeth for a brighter appearance and detects early signs of dental issues. Overall, professional cleanings support oral health, enhance your smile, and boost self-confidence by reducing the risk of serious dental problems.
Ultrasonic Scaling
Efficient scaling with improved patient comfort
At North Peace Dental and Implant Centre, our hygienists utilize advanced technology to enhance your dental cleaning. We use both Cavitron and Piezo ultrasonic scalers, which employ high-frequency sound waves to effectively remove plaque, tartar, and stains. These ultrasonic scalers minimize the need for excessive pressure, making the cleaning process more comfortable while the water irrigation system flushes out harmful bacteria from beneath the gums. While ultrasonic scaling complements traditional hand scaling, it significantly improves efficiency and patient comfort, offering a superior cleaning experience.
Benefits of Regular Dental Hygiene
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Regular dental hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, help prevent plaque buildup and tartar formation, which are key contributors to gum disease and tooth decay. By maintaining clean teeth and gums, you reduce the risk of gingivitis, periodontitis, and cavities, ensuring long-term oral health.
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Effective oral hygiene helps prevent the conditions that lead to tooth mobility and loss, such as advanced gum disease and severe decay. By removing plaque and tartar regularly, you protect the supporting structures of your teeth, reducing the risk of loose teeth and the need for extractions.
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Consistent dental care enhances the appearance of your smile by preventing discoloration and staining caused by plaque and tartar. Additionally, maintaining oral hygiene minimizes bad breath by reducing the buildup of bacteria that cause unpleasant odors, leaving you with a brighter smile and fresh breath.
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Good oral hygiene is linked to overall health benefits, including a lower risk of systemic conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. Regular dental care helps prevent oral infections that could potentially impact your general health, contributing to a healthier lifestyle and reducing the risk of developing related health issues.
What to expect during a cleaning?
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Periodontal Assessment involves a thorough examination of the gums, bone structure, and supporting tissues of the teeth. The dentist or hygienist checks for signs of periodontal disease, including gum inflammation, bleeding, pocket depths, and bone loss. The assessment also includes evaluating the overall condition of the gums and any changes since the last visit.
Probing is a specific procedure used during the periodontal assessment. A periodontal probe, a slender, calibrated instrument, is gently inserted into the spaces between the teeth and gums (periodontal pockets). This measures the depth of the pockets and assesses the attachment levels of the gum tissue. Probing helps determine the extent of periodontal disease and guides the treatment plan. Healthy periodontal pockets typically range from 1 to 3 millimeters in depth. Deeper pockets can indicate gum disease and may require additional treatment.
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Plaque disclosure is a diagnostic technique used in dentistry to identify and visualize the presence of dental plaque on teeth. It involves applying a special dye or staining agent to the teeth, which highlights areas where plaque has accumulated. The dye temporarily stains plaque, making it visible against the natural tooth color. This helps both the patient and dentist see areas that require more attention during brushing and flossing. By identifying these areas, patients can improve their oral hygiene practices and target specific regions to prevent plaque buildup, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
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Scaling involves removing calculus and plaque from the tooth surfaces, focusing particularly on the area below the gum line and along the root. This is done using an ultrasonic scaling tool, which often includes an irrigation feature to apply an antimicrobial agent below the gums, reducing oral bacteria.
Root planing is where the cementum and surface dentin embedded with microorganisms, toxins, and tartar are removed. The tooth root is smoothed to promote healing and prevent future bacterial colonization.
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Prophy polish, short for prophylaxis polish, is a routine dental procedure aimed at removing surface stains and plaque from teeth after a professional cleaning. This step involves using a special polishing paste and a rotating brush or rubber cup to smooth and shine the tooth surfaces. The polish helps to remove any remaining debris and provides a smooth, clean finish, which enhances the overall cleanliness and appearance of the teeth. It also helps in reducing plaque buildup and prevents the formation of tartar.
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Topical fluoride application is a dental procedure used to strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay. During this procedure, a fluoride solution, gel, foam, or varnish is applied directly to the surface of the teeth. This fluoride treatment helps to remineralize weakened enamel, making it more resistant to acid attacks from bacteria and food. Topical fluoride applications are typically quick, non-invasive, and can be administered during routine dental check-ups. They are especially beneficial for children, individuals with a high risk of cavities, or those who have weakened enamel due to various factors.
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An oral hygiene discussion is a conversation between a dental hygienist and a patient aimed at educating the patient on proper dental care practices. This discussion typically covers topics such as effective brushing and flossing techniques, the importance of regular dental check-ups, dietary recommendations for maintaining oral health, and strategies for managing oral health conditions like gum disease or tooth sensitivity. The goal is to help the patient understand how to maintain optimal oral hygiene, prevent dental problems, and promote overall oral health. This discussion may occur during routine visits or as part of a specific treatment plan.
Instruction for Routine Oral Home Care
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Maintaining a diet for optimal dental health involves choosing foods that support strong teeth and gums. Incorporate plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, which provide essential vitamins and minerals. Dairy products like cheese and yogurt are rich in calcium and help strengthen teeth. Lean proteins, such as chicken and fish, support gum health. Limit sugary and acidic foods, as they can contribute to tooth decay and erosion. Drinking plenty of water helps rinse away food particles and bacteria. Additionally, green and black teas contain compounds that can reduce bacterial growth. Balanced nutrition combined with good oral hygiene practices promotes overall dental well-being.
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To brush your teeth effectively, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Start by placing the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to your gum line. Gently brush the outer surfaces of your teeth using small, circular motions, and then move to the inner surfaces. For the chewing surfaces, use a back-and-forth motion. Don't forget to brush your tongue and the roof of your mouth to remove bacteria and freshen your breath. Brush for at least two minutes, twice a day, and replace your toothbrush every three to four months.
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To floss your teeth effectively, start with a piece of dental floss about 18 inches long. Wrap the ends around your middle fingers, leaving a few inches of floss to work with. Gently insert the floss between your teeth using a back-and-forth motion. Curve the floss around each tooth in a C shape and slide it up and down to clean the sides. Be careful not to snap the floss, which can damage your gums. Repeat this process for each tooth, including the back teeth. Dispose of used floss and rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash to remove any loosened debris.
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To use a Water Pick effectively, start by filling the reservoir with warm water and adjusting the pressure setting to a comfortable level. Position the flosser over the sink and place the tip in your mouth. Turn on the device and lean over the sink, closing your lips slightly to avoid splashing. Direct the stream of water at the gum line, moving from tooth to tooth and pausing briefly between teeth. Use a sweeping motion to clean along the gum line and between teeth. After finishing, turn off the device, remove and rinse the tip, and empty the reservoir. Regular use helps remove plaque and debris, promoting oral health.
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To use an interproximal brush, select the appropriate size brush for the gaps between your teeth. Gently insert the brush between your teeth, ensuring it fits snugly but comfortably. Use a back-and-forth motion to clean between the teeth, applying gentle pressure to avoid damaging the gums. Be thorough but avoid forcing the brush into tight spaces. After brushing, rinse the brush and your mouth with water or mouthwash to remove any debris. Regular use of an interproximal brush helps remove plaque and food particles from between teeth, reducing the risk of cavities and gum disease. Replace the brush as needed when bristles become worn.
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To use mouthwash properly, start by pouring the recommended amount into the cap or a measuring cup. Swish the mouthwash around your mouth thoroughly for 30 seconds to 1 minute, making sure to reach all areas, including between your teeth and along the gum line. Avoid swallowing the mouthwash, and try not to eat or drink for at least 30 minutes after use to maximize its effectiveness. Spit the mouthwash out into the sink. Use mouthwash as directed, typically once or twice daily, to help reduce plaque, fight bad breath, and maintain overall oral hygiene.