Wilburn Family Dentistry
1420 Townview Ln.
Santa Rosa, CA, 95405
Phone: (707) 542-2881
Email: staff@stevewilburndmd.com


Professional Dental Cleaning

Professional Dental Cleaning

Professional Dental Cleaning

A professional dental cleaning is a cleaning treatment performed to thoroughly clean the teeth and gums. It is an important dental treatment for stopping the progression of gingivitis and periodontal disease and in keeping the oral cavity in proper health and halting the progression of gum disease.

The benefits include:

  • Plaque Removal – Calculus (also referred to as tartar) and plaque buildup, both above and below the gum line, can result in serious periodontal problems. Unfortunately, even with a proper home brushing and flossing routine, it can be impossible to remove all debris, bacteria and deposits from gum pockets. The experienced eye of a dentist or hygienist using specialized dental equipment is necessary to catch potentially damaging buildup.
  • A Healthier Looking Smile – Stained and yellowed teeth can dramatically decrease the esthetics of a smile. A professional dental cleaning is an effective treatment in ridding the teeth of these unsightly stains.
  • Fresher Breath – Bad breath (or halitosis) is often indicative of inadequate oral hygiene or advancing periodontal disease. The routine removal of plaque, calculus and bacteria at our facility can noticeably improve halitosis.
    • A professional dental cleaning can be performed at our office. We recommend that professional dental cleanings be performed twice annually as a preventative measure, but should be completed every 3-4 month for periodontitis sufferers. It should be noted that gum disease cannot be completely reversed, but a professional dental cleaning is one of the tools Dr. Wilburn can use to help halt its progression.
    • The bacterial plaque that builds up can harden over time as the minerals in our saliva precipitate out. The result is calculus, sometimes called “tartar”, a hard deposit that contains much of the same bacterial toxins as the plaque it was formed from.
    • Everyone builds up calculus. Failure to remove the normal buildup from the teeth allows gingivitis and periodontitis (gum inflammation and infection) to occur. And the only way to remove this calculus is with professional dental cleaning by a dentist or dental hygienist.
    • A professional dental cleaning usually involves several steps. We measure the depth of the periodontal “pockets” the space between the teeth and the gums. We will remove the bulk of the calculus, often with ultrasonic instruments that use a spray coolant. We do the fine “scaling” with precise hand instruments. Then we will polish the teeth to remain residual stain and protein film. This fluoride treatment helps to protect the teeth from decay and helps to prevent sensitivity.
    • Your visit to our office is an important part of your program to prevent gum disease and keep your teeth for your lifetime.
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