Chances are, you think a lot about the care your teeth need. After all, they are probably one of the first things you notice when you look in the mirror, and they are certainly one of the physical traits others are most likely to notice about you. Unfortunately, your teeth are not the only part of your smile that are essential to a beautiful and healthy smile. To keep your smile in great shape, it’s important to take good care of your gums, too. In some cases, that might mean that your gums need additional preventive care!
Preventive checkups and cleanings might be considered care for the teeth, but these visits are actually essential to good gum health, too. That is because professional dental cleanings are the best way to remove hardened tartar buildup from the surface of the teeth. Without prompt removal tartar can contribute to the development of cavities, but it can also lead to irritation and eventually infection in the gums. So make sure you are seeing the dentist at least twice a year for key preventive care, like cleanings.
If your teeth are already showing symptoms of gum disease, such as inflammation, a red or purple color instead of a healthy pink shade, or if they bleed easily when you floss, you could be in need of additional care like a periodontal cleaning. Periodontal cleanings generally involve both scaling and root planning, which helps to break up more plaque, so the dentist can remove it. Over time, this can lead to healthier gums and better overall oral health, as well.
Regular checkups and cleanings can help keep your whole smile healthy. Scott Dooley, DDS can provide you with the preventive dental care you need.. We are proud to serve patients from Garland, TX, as well as those in Richardson, Dallas, Wylie, Sachse, and all surrounding communities. To schedule an appointment, contact us today at 972-495-8100. We have patient forms available online.