Regular check-ups enable the dentist to prevent dental problems, evaluate your oral health and propose treatment plans when needed.
The hygienist performs a thorough cleaning, removing plaque, tartar and stains from the surface of your teeth.
Oral hygiene helps maintain your natural teeth and keeps your mouth clean and healthy. Fresh breath and a healthy smile are precious assets in many social, personal and professional situations.
What is oral hygiene?
A set of daily practices that aim to eliminate plaque and prevent ailments, like cavities and gum disease. Regular dental check-ups and mechanical means are also needed for optimal oral hygiene.
Three key components:
Tools for a healthy mouth
A manual or electric soft-bristled brush with a round or oval head is best. Vigorous brushing can irritate the gums and cause teeth to loosen. Brush your teeth gently using the right technique.
Rigorous dental hygiene also involves using a fluoride-based toothpaste and dental floss. A tongue cleaner can also be used to clean the upper surface of the tongue.
Gum disease
After cavities, gingivitis and periodontitis are the most common periodontal diseases in adults. These insidious afflictions are often painless at their onset, which is why it’s so important to have regular check-ups and cleanings.
What is periodontal disease?
The mouth is a complex collection of structures. The periodontium, which includes the gums, alveolar bone, cementum and periodontal ligament, serves as a solid foundation for our teeth.
Periodontal disease occurs when a bacterial infection reaches the gums. It is caused by an accumulation of hardened dental plaque called tartar.
Risk factors:
Stages of periodontal disease
The first stage of a gingival infection is gingivitis. It is reversible and won’t cause permanent damage to supporting structures. Some of the symptoms include red, swollen gums and bleeding during brushing or flossing.
When left untreated, gingivitis can reach osseous tissue and turn into periodontitis. At this stage, infected pockets are present between the gums and teeth. Periodontitis can also lead to pain during chewing, persistent bad breath and loosened teeth.
To curtail the progression of the disease and restore damaged structures, periodontitis needs to be treated.
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Dentistes sur Drummond provide quality dental services in downtown Montreal.
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