Effective oral care can help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and can even stop oral cancer. Brushing and flossing are great for keeping teeth clean but effective oral care means much more. Regular dental exams include a comprehensive review of teeth, gums, and oral health. During dental examinations, dentists look for signs of trouble before it begins. At Houston Dentists at Post Oak, all dental exams include professional teeth cleaning.

The teeth contain many hard to reach areas. Plaque and bacteria can become trapped in areas difficult to reach with brushing and flossing. This can cause tooth decay and can lead to the development of tartar (mineralized plaque). Tartar can cause damaging effects to the mouth and must be removed with professional tools. Dental examinations and professional teeth cleanings also remove odor-causing bacteria, helping maintain clean and fresh breath. Annual X-rays are included as part of dental exams, and in some cases may occur more often.

Professional Teeth Cleaning

At Houston Dentists at Post Oak, teeth cleanings are meant to be comfortable and relaxing. We’ve designed our office around the comfort of our patients.

Removing Tartar

Plaque and tartar are removed with a scaler. A scaler is a small dental instrument used to scrape plaque and tartar from the tooth surface, up to the gum above and below the gum line. Ultrasonic lasers may also be used for scaling, with fast vibrating tips for removing tartar. Removing plaque and bacteria by brushing and flossing at home can help limit the formation of tartar.

Deep Cleaning

Teeth are thoroughly cleaned with an ultrasonic scaler, followed by a hand scaler. These clean teeth with more force than possible at home, removing leftover buildup. Flossing removes bacteria and plaque from between the teeth. The teeth are left polished and clean. Tartar buildup can happen quickly, especially below the gum line; cleanings may be separated into two visits.

Fluoride Treatment

Teeth are protected with fluoride treatments to prevent cavities and tooth decay. Following a fluoride rinse after a professional cleaning, fluoride treatment is applied either as a gel or varnish. Fluoride treatments come in a choice of flavors. The effects of professional fluoride treatments can last for months.

Preventing Gingivitis

When plaque, bacteria, and tartar form, the gums are at risk of developing gingivitis. Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease which can be prevented with good oral hygiene. Gum disease may begin with painless symptoms. A dental exam at Houston Dentists at Post Oak can spot the signs of gingivitis early. Patients developing gingivitis may experience:

• Red, irritated, or swollen gums
• Loose teeth or a receding gum line
• Pervasive bad breath

Detected early enough, gingivitis is treatable. Good oral hygiene habits and professional care can reverse the effects of gingivitis. If gingivitis isn’t treated in time it can develop into periodontitis. Periodontitis is an advanced form of gum disease attacking the gums and bone structure supporting the teeth. Periodontitis can cause serious tissue and tooth loss.

At Houston Dentists at Post Oak, periodontitis is treated with advanced lasers for precision removal of affected tissue. This helps salvage remaining tissue and rejuvenate the smile. Regular dental exams and professional teeth cleanings can help prevent gingivitis and periodontitis promoting a healthy smile for life.

Practicing Healthy Habits

The best way to maintain a bright, healthy smile is to practice healthy dental habits.

• Brush and Floss. Brushing at least twice per day and flossing once per day helps keep teeth free of plaque and bacteria. Brushing helps keep mouths healthy and breath fresh.
• Eat Right. Snacks, sodas, coffee and more can stain teeth and promote bacteria growth. Teeth can become discolored and bacteria can form on minuscule food particles.
• Stop Smoking. Smoking is destructive to oral health. Quitting smoking helps keep teeth bright, and reduces the likelihood of developing gum disease.
• Dental exams and professional cleanings at least twice per year, in conjunction with good at-home oral care, can help keep smiles full and lively.

Scheduling a Dental Exam in Houston

Scheduling a dental exam in Houston is easy. Call Houston Dentists at Post Oak at (713)-255-1029 to schedule a dental exam and cleaning. Dental exams can help prevent cavities by spotting the signs of tooth decay early on. Prevent gum disease and periodontitis by scheduling regular dental exams and cleanings.

At Houston Dentists at Post Oak, dental exams and all services are performed in a comfortable and relaxing environment. Leave the city behind; enjoy a dental exam and teeth cleaning in a calm setting. A dental exam is the first step toward achieving and keeping a full and vibrant smile. Treat your smile with the quality of care it deserves. Call Houston Dentists at Post Oak to schedule a dental exam and teeth cleaning today.