Dental Hygiene
Periodontal Health
While at our office, we make sure that you receive the highest level of service and ensure that our dental work is of the highest quality. To ensure that you maintain great oral health, this level of quality needs to extend into your personal oral hygiene routine. We can help you establish a dental hygiene routine that will keep your teeth healthy and white. If you have any questions about your current hygiene plan please ask us.
Your teeth are not the only important part of your mouth. Your gums are essential to oral hygiene as well. We can provide periodontal cleanings and treatment, or refer you to one of our recommended specialists. Please let us know if you have any questions.
Oral Cancer Screenings
Oral cancer screenings are a very important part of the dental visit for the patient. With the advances in modern technology, we are now able to pinpoint the start of a potential problem much earlier in its evolution. The ability to do so is extremely important in being able to treat any issues prior to them becoming a major irreversible problem.
The oral cancer screening is often completed with an ultraviolet light or similar device that allows us to view issues that can’t always be detected by the human eye under normal conditions.
Certain lifestyle choices can have a great impact on the health of tissues and your overall health in the mouth. If you are a smoker or heavy drinker, make sure to get regular screenings when you visit the dentist.
Root Planing
Often there is plaque and tartar that accumulates below the gum line. In this scenario, we will clean and smooth this area with special instruments to ensure that the area is completely spotless. If this area is not kept clean the entire area can become irritated with the bacteria that resides in the tartar and plaque. It’s very important to have your dentist check this area if you have bleeding during brushing.
Dental Hygiene & Gum Health FAQs
How often should I get a dental cleaning?
Most people benefit from a professional dental cleaning and exam every six months. Patients with gum disease or other risk factors may need more frequent visits, and Dr. Hwang will recommend a schedule based on your oral health.
What happens during a dental cleaning?
During a cleaning, plaque and tartar are removed from your teeth, including along and just below the gumline, and your teeth are polished. Your gums are checked for signs of gum disease, X-rays are taken when needed, and Dr. Hwang examines your teeth for cavities and other concerns.
What is periodontal (gum) disease?
Periodontal disease is an infection of the gums and the bone that supports the teeth, caused by plaque bacteria. The early stage, gingivitis, causes inflamed gums. If untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which can damage the bone and lead to loose teeth or tooth loss.
What are the signs of gum disease?
Common signs of gum disease include gums that bleed when you brush or floss, red or swollen gums, persistent bad breath, gums that pull away from the teeth, and teeth that feel loose. Gum disease can also develop without pain, which is why regular checkups are important.
What is scaling and root planing?
Scaling and root planing, often called a deep cleaning, treats gum disease by removing plaque and tartar from below the gumline and smoothing the tooth roots. Smoother roots make it harder for bacteria to build up and help the gums heal and reattach to the teeth.
Can gum disease be reversed?
Gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, can often be reversed with professional cleanings and good daily brushing and flossing. More advanced periodontitis cannot be fully reversed, but it can be managed with treatment and regular periodontal maintenance visits.
Is gum health connected to overall health?
Research has linked gum disease to other health conditions, including diabetes and heart disease. Keeping your gums healthy through daily care and regular cleanings is an important part of caring for your overall health.
This information is general and is not a substitute for an exam with Dr. Hwang. For emergencies, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. For dental concerns, call West Campus Dental Center at 253-838-3283.
