It’s common knowledge that you should brush your teeth at least twice daily and floss at least once daily. But at-home oral hygiene isn’t enough to keep your pearly whites healthy. You’ll also need to visit a family dentist serving Leander every six months for a professional teeth cleaning and exam. Your family dentist or dental hygienist will use special instruments to remove tartar from above and underneath the gum line. This process is known as scaling. Tartar is hardened plaque and it’s impossible to remove at home with a toothbrush. If tartar is allowed to remain in your mouth, it will irritate your gums and can place you at risk of gingivitis, which is the first stage of gum disease.
Another benefit of professional dental care
is that your teeth will be thoroughly polished with a gritty cleanser, which removes surface stains and can help you maintain a beautiful, brilliant smile. While you’re at the office, your family dentist will also perform a comprehensive exam to check for possible problems. This is crucial because patients won’t necessarily be able to detect dental issues by themselves. With early detection and professional teeth cleaning, many oral health issues can be easily corrected without the need for extensive dental work.