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Dental Hygiene

It has been shown that prevention is one of the main factors in maintaining overall health, and of your teeth. The foundation for natural, restored, and implant supported teeth is healthy gum tissue and bone. Without the proper oral care, over time, the bacteria (plaque) will begin to build-up at the gum line and will harden producing tartar, inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and penetrate the gum line and begin spreading into the bone (periodontitis). Recent studies indicate that periodontitis has been associated with diabetes, heart disease and low birth weight infants.

Regular teeth cleaning by a dental professional is extremely important to remove tartar that can build up (even with careful brushing and flossing), especially in parts of the mouth that are particularly challenging to clean. Professional cleaning includes tooth scaling, tooth polishing and debridement if too much tartar has been accumulated. Our professionals use a variety of tools and continue to update their skills to make sure you are receiving extra-mile service..

Our hygienists, Maria, Colleen, and Christine have a combined over 65 years of dental hygiene experience, and will help to make your dental hygiene maintenance as effortless as possible.

Treatment of the periodontal disease begins with the removal of tartar (gingival calculus) and biofilm deposits (plaque). A common first step is called scaling and root planning, which seeks to remove tartar by scraping it away from the tooth surfaces. The problem with dental calculus (tartar) is that it harbours harmful bacteria.

Gingivitis is the most common form of periodontal disease (non-destructive). It is when there’s an inflammation of the gum tissue. When plaque builds up on the surface, it’s called plaque-induced gingivitis. If left untreated, it can escalate to the destructive form, Periodontitis, which affects the tissues that support and surround the teeth. With poor oral care, bacteria can infiltrate the gum line and affect the underlying bone. If left untouched, it can lead to damage of the teeth’s supporting tissues, loosened teeth, and eventually lost teeth.

Signs of Gingivitis Include:

  • Red, swollen, or tender gums

  • Bleeding while brushing or flossing

  • Bad breath

Signs of Periodontitis Include:

  • Red, swollen, or tender gums

  • Bleeding while brushing or flossing

  • Gums that pull away from the teeth

  • Persistent bad breath or a constant metallic taste in your mouth

  • Loose or separating teeth

  • An alteration in the way your teeth fit together

Six steps that will help you enjoy healthier teeth and gums:

  • Make sure you brush your teeth for at least two minutes, and at least twice daily

  • Floss daily between all your teeth to remove plaque

  • Rinse with antiseptic mouthwash. Ask your dentist what is recommended.

  • Make healthy food choices. Not only is it good for your oral health, it’s good for your whole body

  • Regularly schedule and attend your dental appointments with your dental team

  • Quit smoking. Studies have linked cigarettes with destroyed bones that support the teeth. Smoking also weakens the immune system, increasing your chances of periodontal disease

Now for some good news! If you can follow these six simple steps, periodontal disease is easily preventable and manageable and it only takes just a few minutes a day! But if you have more questions about your appointment, simply ask us, we love to answer questions. We like to make sure you understand your oral health and you know you’re in good hands. Our team is ready to exceed your expectations.

At Dunsmuir Dental Centre, we will make every effort to help establish directly with you, an indepth, preventative, and individualized home care regime to help minimize bone loss and preserve your smile for a lifetime.

MAKE SURE YOU:

  • Accurately brush and floss your teeth

  • Use acceptable mouth wash products and don’t forget to clean your tongue

  • Make sure you see your dental hygiene team regularly

  • Eat properly – Healthy foods that are low in acid and low in sugar content are suggested

  • Do not smoke!

Not only will the above help reduce the incidence of oral disease and inflammations from oral bacteria and infections, but it will help reduce the possible risk of serious diseases like:

  • Cardiovascular disease

  • Bacterial Pneumonia

  • High and Low birth weights

  • Diabetic complications

  • Osteoporosis

So put your best smile forward and we will help you take care of it! Smile right, smile bright and keep your smile healthy for many, many years!