Hygiene Services
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Here at 904 Dental Care, we will not only provide you with the highest quality of care but a memorable and comfortable experience from start to finish. Talk to us at least once every six months for the cleaning, polishing, and dental education you need. Our team is available to help protect your teeth and prevent any risks to your smile.
Dental hygiene, also referred to as ‘a cleaning,’ removes plaque, tartar and stains to help you keep your teeth and gums healthy. It allows to remove buildup and debris in areas of the mouth that we cannot see or reach with our home toothbrush. Routine cleanings are a great way to prevent gum disease and tooth loss.
You may also receive an oral cancer screening, fluoride to resist decay, scaling, polishing and/or restorations. We will work with you, one on one to develop proper brushing and flossing techniques, provide nutrition counseling and explain your treatment options in a way that makes you feel comfortable and confident.
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Bad Breath
Halitosis, or bad breath, is one of the most frequent reasons for visiting the dentist. Causes include infrequent brushing and flossing, gum disease, dry mouth, smoking and diet. Your dentist may suggest using a tongue scraper, chewing sugarless gum, gargling with mouthwash and drinking lots of water. Do not feel embarrassed or be dissuaded from having this discussion. It is more common than you think!
Periodontal Disease (Gum Disease)
Periodontal disease is an infection caused by bacteria found in plaque. As the bacteria spread below the gumline, the gums and bone around the teeth begin to break down, and can lead to loose teeth or tooth loss. Quite often, symptoms do not appear until the late stages, which is why regular hygiene visits are encouraged. Possible early signs include: receding gums (gums going away from the teeth), bleeding while brushing or flossing, bad breath, mouth sores, or loose or separating teeth.
Your doctor can tell how much bone loss your periodontitis has caused by examining your X-rays and measuring your gum levels along the gum line. Once your stage of periodontal disease has been determined, they will work diligently to personalize a treatment plan to suit your needs. This may include specific homecare instructions and useful items to assist you at home. Also, start you on a Soft Tissue periodontal maintenance Management program, where they can monitor and ensure your progress, or a referral to a periodontist.
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Tooth Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity is a very common concern. Symptoms often arise after drinking hot or cold drinks or eating certain foods and sweets. Sensitivity can be easily treated with fluoride. Your dentist will often suggest using a toothpaste specifically for sensitive teeth. Learn more about tooth sensitivity.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth is a common side effect of many prescription and non-prescription drugs, certain diseases and infections and medical treatments. It can also result from nerve damage, dehydration and lifestyle (smoking or chewing tobacco).
Symptoms include frequent thirst, dry mouth, mouth sores, cracked lips, dry and red tongue, problems speaking or trouble tasting, sore throat and even bad breath. This is an everyday conversation for our team. Our patients come to us with this issue more often than you may think. Your dentist will be able to discuss home care solutions that will help you combat your dry mouth.