Sue on the advantages of regular cleans

The advantages of having regular cleans far out-way any uncomfortably or nervousness a patient may feel coming to the dentist.  Some people haven’t had a clean for many years and when they finally decide to it isn’t as bad as they may have imagined.  By not coming for regular cleans the gums as well as the teeth are severely effected.  People can have very strong teeth and even if they don’t have decay they can lose their teeth due to periodontal disease (gum problems).  What happens is that over the months and sometimes years the plaque builds up on the teeth and gums and without regular cleans the germs stay on the gums and bleeding occurs when brushing.  The patient than is either deterred from more brushing due to the bleeding and that is the worst thing that can happen.  By letting the plaque and germs stay on the gums and teeth, the gums start receding and the teeth become loose in the socket.  It is such a shame to lose good teeth due to the fact that proper cleans weren’t done resulting in wobbly teeth falling out.  This could have been avoided and the teeth kept instead of gaps being the result.

We advise a clean at least every six months, and if the person builds up plaque on their teeth quickly then every three months may be needed. Sometimes the dentist may have to clean the teeth over two visits, especially if there is a lot of plaque below the gum. The first clean removes the plaque above the gum. The gum can bleed making it difficult to see all the plaque. Waiting about one to two weeks allows the swelling in the gum to subside and shrink, often exposing the plaque that was below the gum. This is a better method of cleaning and often is much less sensitive.

Bad breath, irritating heart conditions, diabetes and other health issues could be avoided by coming for regular cleans at the dentist.  Patients have more confidence once their teeth have been cleaned and comment on the feel of the teeth.  So don’t put it off, good habits start from young, it is never too late.  The clock can’t be turned back, so start from an early age and you will keep your teeth for many years if you come for regular cleans.  Your teeth and gums will thank you for it, as well as the rest of your body.

Next week: Sue & Renee on customer satisfaction at Seymour Dental – Part 1