Preventative care is essential for patients of all ages, especially the youngest patients. Early preventive care gives children a foundation to maintain a healthy smile. At Frank N. Johnson, D.D.S., P.A, we believe preventive dental care is the best way to combat dental disease. Dental cleanings are an essential preventative care step. Regular cleanings are critical to maintaining good dental health. These cleanings help to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. This buildup can cause tooth and gum infections, tooth decay, and gum disease. During a cleaning, your dental hygienist will scrape the plaque and tartar from your teeth. The cleaning will also clean your teeth, especially along the gum line.

Preventative Care and Your Gums

Your gums play just as crucial of a role in protecting your teeth as your teeth themselves. When you don’t brush and floss regularly, food particles and plaque build up around your teeth; when the buildup is too thick, it will eventually cause your gums to become inflamed. Your gums will also recede, exposing the roots of your teeth to decay.

Gum disease is usually asymptomatic, so you may not even realize that you have it. However, you may notice that your gums bleed when you brush or floss your teeth or that your breath smells funny. You might also see visible inflammation in your gums.

Preventative Cleanings: The Procedure

During your preventative cleaning, one of our hygienists will gently remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. Then, your teeth will be polished, leaving you with a bright, healthy-looking smile. This cleaning is highly beneficial because it prevents tooth decay and gum disease. We will also thoroughly examine your teeth, gums, and surrounding oral tissues for any signs of abnormalities or disease. If we discover a problem, we will recommend the appropriate treatment or schedule you for a follow-up visit. 

Preventative Cleanings: The Benefits

• Detects early signs of decay
• Removes tartar and plaque buildup
• Reduces your risk of gum disease
• Improves your gum health
• Helps you maintain good oral hygiene

How Often Should I Have a Cleaning?

Patients should visit the dentist every six months for routine cleanings and checkups. Some patients may require cleanings more frequently if their oral hygiene habits are not ideal. By having regular cleanings and checkups, patients can ensure that their smiles are healthy and that they catch problems early or before they develop.

 Get in touch with the dentist in Topeka, KS - Frank N. Johnson, D.D.S., P.A. at 1244 SW Oakley Ave, Topeka, KS 66604, or call (785) 357-7706 for the best dental care.