Preventative Care & Dental Cleanings in Columbia

Most people have heard that they should visit their dentist every six months for examinations & deep dental cleanings in Columbia, MD. They may not understand the importance both to their short-term and long-term oral health. Here’s a quick look at what this regular schedule of care can do for you.

Your mouth is warm and moist and continually provided with nutrients as you eat and drink. All these qualities mean that bacteria find your mouth a hospitable place to grow. When you brush your teeth, you are clearing out nutrients and bacteria that have already grown. In some out-of-the-way locations, however, bacteria and tartar build-up will continue to grow, leading to conditions like gingivitis despite your best efforts. And even in areas you can clean, some gradual accumulation of bacteria will still occur.

When bacteria has remained on the teeth for a while, it begins to harden into a rough coating called plaque. Over time, plaque and tartar can affect your gums, potentially leading to gum disease. During your cleaning, your hygienist will examine every corner of your mouth and scrape away plaque deposits. She will also polish all your tooth surfaces and remove stains as much as possible.

If these dental cleanings are not regularly carried out, bacteria will grow unrestrained leading lead to issues like periodontal disease, especially in hidden areas you can’t reach at home. Plaque deposits produce acids that cause tooth decay and cavities (also known as “caries”), which destroys tooth tissue. If decay is not treated in time, this destruction can reach the tooth's inner soft parts, causing an infection. A root canal will be needed to preserve the tooth. While you’re in the office, this is an opportunity for x-rays if they are needed, a thorough dental exam, and a lesson in maintaining good oral hygiene. Any small problems can be spotted and slated for handling before they become bigger issues like tooth loss! Lifelong maintenance of a regular teeth cleanings, exams, and daily habits like flossing make a very big difference in the health of your teeth and mouth. If you have gone a few months, (or even years) without teeth cleanings, we'll get your mouth back in optimum health, and we also provide other dental services like teeth whitening. Columbia, MD and surrounding area residents, come see Smile Savers for compassionate & innovative dental care.

It’s our job to educate you on how to preserve your teeth and keep your mouth healthy. It’s a responsibility we enjoy every day. We want it to be natural and easy for you to care for your teeth. We strive to make every visit to Smile Savers Dentistry in Columbia, Maryland as pleasurable as possible because we know that when you actually enjoy a visit to your dentist, you’ll be back soon!

If you need your regular dental checkups or other procedures and live in Columbia, Ellicott City or the surrounding area, call Smile Savers Dentistry or request an appointment for a cleaning.