Preventive dental cleaning to protect your teeth in Columbia
While cavities and gum disease are largely preventable, over 90% of people will deal with cavities at one point in their life. At-home care is crucial, but preventive dental cleaning is the best way to catch problems before they develop. Dr. Patton focuses on preventing oral health issues to save patients money and preserve their teeth for as long as possible.
Tooth decay and gum disease
Oral bacteria come to your mouth seeking a warm place with plenty of food. As they feed, they create acids that weaken your tooth enamel and toxins that cause inflammation in your gums. This allows them to advance deeper into your teeth and gums. In the meantime, they create plaque that can harden into tartar to protect them from your toothbrush and flossing routine. While you can’t stop bacteria from coming into your mouth, proper oral hygiene can prevent them from causing damage.
However, some places in your mouth are harder to reach than others. Tiny crevices in your teeth and spaces underneath your gums allow them to hide.
That is why it is essential that you visit the dentist at least twice a year for professional cleaning, and more often if you are at a higher risk.
Routine dental appointments
During a preventive cleaning, dental hygienists can remove plaque and tartar in hard to reach places in your mouth. This can freshen your breath and remove discolorations to brighten your smile. Dr. Patton will also perform a thorough evaluation of your teeth and gums to spot problems as they develop. Catching problems early will save you time and money on your care and protect your teeth from advanced decay and disease.
Our team can also educate you on the best methods for cleaning your teeth and identify problem areas you are missing during your at-home care. We can advise you on ways to improve your diet and nutrition to strengthen your teeth and keep bacteria at bay. To learn more about preventive dental cleanings, contact our office in Columbia, MO, today at (573) 875-7040 to schedule an appointment.