Why Dental Exams Matter

It is the mistake of too many people to wait to visit the dentist until they are in pain. Proper brushing, flossing and regular use of Listerine® are an excellent line of defense against cavities and gum disease. However, these items are not enough on their own. A regular, scheduled professional brooklyn teeth cleaning is crucial to ensure the continued health of your teeth and gums. Avoiding a regular exam and teeth cleaning can result in irreparable damage/

The American Dental Association® reports that cavities are still the most common chronic disease of childhood! Cavities, gum irritations and bacteria cannot be noticed or treated correctly without the knowing eye and technology of a professional dental office. This can affect your overall health as the bacteria responsible for gum disease is the same type of bacteria that causes other major illnesses.

What causes a cavity?

Plaque is a term most are familiar with, but few can define. Plaque is a type of film formed by bacteria that produces acid which is in turn destructive to your teeth. Plaque can also lead to gingivitis which is a loss of tissue connecting the gums to the teeth.

There are many types of bacteria in your mouth, and some of these thrive on certain foods you eat every day - especially certain forms of sugar. When your teeth are not cleaned, the bacteria feeds on the sugar, and acid is produced. This acid eats away at the out enamel of your teeth, and creates tiny holes which are the first stage of cavities.

If the process continues, the acid eventually eats all of the way into the tooth where nerves and blood vessels are - this can causes severe tooth aches.

What is gingivitis?

Gingivitis is a more advanced result of improper home dental care and neglect of a regular exam and teeth cleaning. Gingivitis involves infection that destroys the gums and tissues that support your teeth. Gingivits can be caused by plaque deposits. Plaque, left unattended turns into tartar which becomes trapped at the base of the teeth, irrating and inflaming the gums. Toxins and bacteria can then cause the gums to become infected.

If you notice any signs of gingitivis (bleeding or bright red gums, swollen gums, tender gums) then you should see your Brooklyn dental office immediately, especially if you have not had a routine cleaning in the last few months.

When you come to Brooklyn dentistry, our hygientists not only clean your teeth, but inspect your gum line for redness, check for tooth decay and other similar issues that need to be caught early before permanent damage is done.