Treatments

 

 

 

Dental Hygiene/ Periodontal Health

 

During your dental hygiene appointment- cleaning, polishing, and examination of your teeth, we also take the time to help our patients develop proper oral hygiene habits at home.  We will evaluate your hygiene techniques and make adjustments to your routine where needed.  If we feel that you are suffering from gingivitis or more severe gum disease, we may recommend a root scaling or planing.  These measures can be instrumental in preventing bone loss and helping you to keep your natural teeth.

 

 

Scaling & Root Planing

 

Scaling and root planing is a non-surgical procedure in which the periodontist removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line. Root surfaces are cleaned and smoothed with specially designed instruments. It is important to remove the plaque and tartar from the pockets, because aside from the bacterial toxins that irritate the gums, plaque and the rough surfaces of tartar make it easier for bacteria to gain a foothold.

 

 

Oral Cancer Screenings

 

During a dental exam, the doctor will check your neck and oral tissues for lumps, red or white patches or recurring sore areas. .

 

 

What does plaque look like?

 

Plaque is at first a soft, colourless substance which is difficult to see until the coating is quite thick and becomes a white layer. It collects on the surfaces of teeth mainly next to the gums and between the teeth.

 

 

What is tartar

 

Tartar (calculus) is formed when minerals such as calcium in the saliva combine with plaque and make it hard. This happens commonly behind the lower front teeth. Once tartar has formed, it will have to be removed by your dentist or hygienist. Regular, effective plaque removal is the best way to prevent build-up of tartar.