P Gregory Peterson, DMD & Associates
Preventive Dentistry in
Upper St. Claire
Preventive dental care is important throughout your life, no matter your age. By practicing good oral hygiene at home and scheduling regular checkups with your dentist, you can help keep your smile bright and healthy for many years to come.
Teeth Cleanings At The Dentist
Teeth cleaning is a great preventative dental care measure. It allows us dentists to examine your teeth for any issues while also removing harmful plaque and tartar that build up over time.
During your teeth cleaning at our office, we will do the following:
Physical Examination By Our Dentists
Before we begin the cleaning process, we will perform a physical examination of your entire mouth. Using a small mirror, the dental hygienist will check around your teeth and gums, looking for any signs of gingivitis or other dental issues or concerns. This allows your dentist to catch issues early and treat them before they grow into major problems.
Remove Plaque and Tartar
Using the same small mirror as a guide, the dental hygienist will use a scaler tool to get rid of any tartar and plaque build up that may be on your teeth.
Gritty Toothpaste Tooth Cleaning
Once all the tarter has been removed, your dentist will polish your teeth with a high-powered polishing cup. We will use a great smelling and tasting polishing paste that often has different flavors to choose form. This step will polish your teeth and have them looking their best!
Floss Your Teeth
We then expertly floss your teeth, getting deep between your teeth. We will also be able to identify any potential trouble spots where you may be bleeding at the gums. With a professional flossing session, we can also remove any leftover plaque or toothpaste in the cleaning process.
Apply a Fluoride Treatment
We will then provide you with a fluoride treatment that is used to protect your teeth from cavities. You can choose the flavor, and then they will place the foamy gel or a sticky paste into a mouthpiece that is fitted over your teeth. This is left on for one minute and then removed.
Teeth Cleaning At Home
1. Brush Your Teeth
Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use fluoride toothpaste to remove food particles and plaque from the tooth surfaces. Also be sure to brush the top surface of your tongue; this will remove any extra plaque-causing food particles, and help keep your breath fresh!
Here are step by step instructions on the best way to brush your teeth, and floss them as well!
2. Floss Between Your Teeth
Clean between your teeth by flossing at least once a day. You can also use a mouthwash to help kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Decay-causing bacteria can linger between teeth where toothbrush bristles can't reach. Floss and mouthwash will help remove plaque and food particles from between the teeth and under the gum line.
3. Eat A Balanced Diet
Eat a balanced diet, and try to avoid extra-sugary treats. Nutritious foods such as raw vegetables, plain yogurt, cheese, or fruit can help keep your smile healthy.
How Dentists Can Take Care Of Your Teeth
1. Regular Dental Checkups
Remember to schedule regular checkups with your dentist every six months for a professional teeth cleaning.
2. Dental Sealants Can Preserve Teeth
Ask your dentist about dental sealants, protective plastic coatings that can be applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth where decay often starts.
3. Special Mouth Guards For Athletes
If you play sports, be sure to ask your dentist about special mouth guards that are designed to protect your smile.
If it's been six months since your last dental checkup, then it's time to contact our practice and schedule your next appointment at our office in Upper St. Clair!