Dental Hygiene
Wenatchee, WA
 Taking care of your teeth and gums is an important part of everyday life. Poor dental hygiene can lead to serious problems that affect your oral and overall health. At Johnson Family Dental, our goal is to help you avoid these problems. Dr. Johnson and our team will help you maintain a healthy mouth with professional cleanings, regular checkups, and proper education.
Checkups and Professional Dental Cleanings
The Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), strongly recommends a professional cleaning every six months. Even those who regularly practice good oral hygiene should visit Johnson Family Dental at least twice a year.
During a routine checkup, our hygienist will use a hand scaler to scrape the surface of the tooth. A hand scaler may be the only way to eliminate certain instances of plaque and tartar. Your teeth will also be polished to remove minor stains and improve cosmetics.
During the physical exam, we will check for signs of poor dental hygiene. We may take x-rays to reveal cavities and develop a treatment plan. If we notice red, swollen, or bleeding gums, you may have gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. Dr. Johnson will give you proper instructions to combat the infection. We may also perform a scaling and root planning procedure if the disease progresses.
Dental Hygiene at Home
We cannot monitor your teeth on a daily basis. That’s why it is so important to implement proper oral hygiene practices at home. During your appointment, Dr. Johnson will review proper brushing and flossing techniques. Daily preventive care can stop problems before they before a more serious condition.
Be sure to brush thoroughly at least twice a day. Daily flossing helps to remove debris and prevent gum disease. A well-balanced diet can also lead to better oral health. Foods and drinks that are high in sugar and simple carbohydrates can significantly increase decay. Bacteria found in plaque will feed off these sugars and carbohydrates.
Patients who smoke or use tobacco products should strongly consider quitting. Among other serious conditions, tobacco use has been linked to gum disease and oral cancer.
If you notice consistent bad breath, bleeding gums, or sensitivity issues, you should schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible. Staying proactive can lead to a long life of healthy teeth.
The Importance of Proper Dental Hygiene
Above all else, we want to keep plaque under control. If left unchecked, the bacteria in plaque will wreak havoc on your life. Gum disease has been linked to systemic illnesses such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, pulmonary disease, and other serious conditions. Studies suggest that the bacteria in your mouth can cause inflammation throughout the body. The more severe the infection, the greater your risk is of a heart attack or stroke. Beyond the secondary effects, poor oral health can lead to decay, pain, and tooth loss. By practicing proper oral hygiene, you can avoid restorative procedures that cost tens of thousands, as well as the embarrassment of an unhealthy smile.
Schedule an Appointment
Do not neglect your oral health. Be sure to implement proper at-home hygiene, and visit us on a regular basis. If you would like to learn more or schedule an appointment, call (509) 886-8833. |
