BowValley Fillings

Are you concerned about bad breath, gingivitis and tartar build up?

Brushing and flossing at home on a regular basis can prevent these issues, but it is still important that you have your teeth professionally cleaned on a consistent basis. After a dental cleaning, your teeth will feel smooth and squeaky-clean, and they will probably look brighter as well.

Why should you be concerned about Plaque?

  1. Requires less than 24 hours to form on and around teeth
  2. Consists of glycoproteins from saliva and bacteria that adhere to the glycoproteins
  3. The bacteria in plaque form microcolonies that mature on the teeth
  4. The bacteria metabolize certain sugars to produce acid, which can cause tooth decay (cavities)
  5. A build-up of plaque on areas of the mouth can lead to bad breath, tooth decay, breakdown of current restorations, and bleeding and swelling of the gums
  6. When plaque hardens, it forms calculus (tartar)

What is Calculus (Tartar)?

  1. Is caused by the precipitation of minerals, from gingival fluid and saliva, into dental plaque
  2. Can form on and around teeth in less than 3 months
  3. Cannot be removed by simple brushing and flossing
  4. Requires a dental professional to scrape it off with scalers

Calculus and Plaque can form below the gum line between the gums and teeth. If left for long enough, plaque and calculus can cause gingivitis and periodontitis.

Gingivitis is inflammation in the gums around the teeth. It is seen as redness in the gums and the gums bleed easily when brushed or flossed.

Periodontitis is inflammation in the structures around the teeth, including the gums and bone support. If left long enough, periodontitis can destroy the bone support around the teeth, and lead to tooth loss.

The best way to find out if you show symptoms of gingivitis or periodontitis is too book a cleaning with one of our hygienists. Our Dental cleanings consist of:

  • Scaling: Completed above and below the gums to remove plaque and calculus missed by regular brushing and flossing
  • Polishing: Removes surface plaque and stains on the teeth
  • Fluoride: Applied to the teeth to make them more resistant to cavities

Your scaling, polishing and fluoride needs will be assessed based your individual condition and needs.

Book an appointment to have your individual and custom plan developed to maintain healthy teeth and gums, and ask our hygienists for instruction on proper brushing and flossing technique.
BowValley TeethCleaning