Dental Cleaning for Periodontal Maintenance

Teeth Cleaning in Royal Oak near Birmingham MI

It only takes twenty four hours for plaque that is not removed from your teeth to turn into calculus (tartar)!  Daily home teeth cleaning helps control plaque and tartar formation, but those hard to reach areas will always need special attention.

Once your periodontal treatment has been completed, Birmingham, MI dentist Dr. Larry Duffield and his dental hygienist will recommend that you have regular maintenance cleanings (periodontal cleanings), usually four times a year.  At these dental cleaning appointments, the pocket depths will be carefully checked to ensure that they are healthy.  Plaque and calculus that is difficult for you to remove on a daily basis will be removed from above and below the gum line.

In addition to your teeth cleaning and evaluation, your appointment will usually include:

• Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs): Essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss. X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions.

• Examination of existing restorations: Check current fillings, dental crowns, etc.

• Examination of tooth decay: Check all tooth surfaces for decay.

• Oral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, cheek tissues, and gums for any signs of oral cancer.

• Oral hygiene recommendations: Review and recommend oral hygiene aids as needed. (Electric toothbrushes, special periodontal brushes, fluorides, rinses, etc.)

• Teeth polishing: Remove stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.

Good oral hygiene practices and dental cleanings are essential in maintaining dental health and keeping periodontal disease under control!

In the Detroit, Michigan area, Dr. Larry Duffield and his team of expert hygienists provide maintenance teeth cleaning and oral exams in their office located near Birmingham, MI. Call our Royal Oak dental office today to set an appointment for your next dental cleaning.