A professional dental cleaning isn’t just about a polished smile; it’s a clinical necessity that removes any plaque that your toothbrush can’t get.
The general rule of thumb when it comes to your dentist is to visit every six months for a cleaning and checkup. It’s a routine part of health maintenance, like any other kind of preventative habit. However, our bodies don’t always follow a calendar. Sometimes your teeth and gums will let you know there’s something wrong before your next scheduled appointment comes around. At Catonsville Dental Care, we see a lot of patients who wait until their biannual visit to bring up a concern, only to find out that a professional cleaning or meeting was needed months before. A professional dental cleaning isn’t just about a polished smile; it’s a clinical necessity that removes any plaque that your toothbrush can’t get. Read on to learn more!
Gums That Bleed
One of the most common misconceptions is that a small bit of blood during brushing or flossing is normal, but it isn’t. Healthy gum tissue is resilient, firm, and shouldn’t bleed under the pressure of a soft-bristled toothbrush or dental floss. If you see pink in the sink, your gums are probably inflamed. This is the main symptom of gingivitis, which is the earliest stage of gum disease. This inflammation is a direct response to the toxins produced by bacteria sitting on your gumline. By scheduling a professional cleaning quickly, you can usually reverse this irritation before it progresses into a more serious dental disease that ends up affecting the bone.
Noticeable Tartar Buildup
Take a look in your bathroom mirror. Do you notice a yellow, brown, and hard crust along the base of your teeth, particularly on the backside of your front teeth? This is tartar, otherwise known as calculus. Plaque is a sticky, soft film that you can remove at home. But if plaque is left on your teeth for more than 24 to 48 hours, it starts to mineralize and hardens into tartar. Once it reaches this state, it’s basically cemented to your enamel. No amount of manual scrubbing can remove it. It provides a porous surface that will attract even more plaque, creating a vicious cycle of buildup that could only be broken by any specialized ultrasonic tools used by dental professionals.
If you’re in need of an emergency dental cleaning today, visit Catonsville Dental Care!
Catonsville Dental Care Can Handle All of Your Oral Care Needs
Catonsville Dental Care offers a wide variety of services when it comes to oral health. We have the experience and understanding to diagnose and treat any problem you have as quickly and painlessly as possible. With four dentists available at our office and a commitment to comfort, safety, and relaxation, you can’t find a better provider for your health. We look forward to helping you keep your smile perfect all year long and talking with you about your needs. To schedule an appointment or consultation, visit us online or give us a call at 410-747-1115. For more tips and tricks, follow us on Facebook, Flickr, X, and YouTube.