Dental Hygiene

Smiles on Lawrence Dental believes in preventive dentistry which is why we offer services that will help fight disease and bad breath before it starts.

When you come for the cleaning, we will:

• Take necessary x rays to detect cavity and condition of existing filling
• Measure and assess your gum (periodontal) tissue
• Check your bite (how the teeth fit together) and jaw
• Exam and screen for oral cancer
• Check your blood pressure
• Review and update your medical history
• Review tooth brushing and flossing
• Clean your teeth and polish
• Fluoride application if needed

Plaque and tartar build-up will irritate then gum and lead to  gingivitis (gum inflammation). But it can be reversed with daily bruising, flossing and regular cleaning.  If irritation of gum is not treated, it may evolve to gum disease (periodontitis) which involves gum and bone around the teeth.  In severe cases, it can lead to tooth loss.  The best way to manage gum disease is practicing good oral hygiene at home with regular visit to dentist.

The signs of gum disease (periodontitis):

• Bleeding gum when brushing teeth
• Red, swollen or tender gum
• Persistent bad breath
• Loose and separating teeth
• Change in the way how the teeth fit together (bite)
• Gum pulled away from teeth

The Academy of General Dentistry recommends teeth cleaning twice a year but the frequency of cleaning may differ based on the assessment of your teeth and gum by your dentist.