Professional teeth cleanings: The perfect (and necessary) complement to good oral care at home

At El Paso Modern Dentistry, we strive to empower patients across Western Texas with the knowledge they need to effectively and efficiently brush and floss their teeth. Our team, led by Dr. Enrique Darancou, also provides suggestions on toothbrushes, floss, rinses, and other oral care products to take your hygiene routine to the next level. 

While consistently good oral care at home is essential, it is not a substitute for professional dental cleaning. It is generally recommended that you visit our office in El Paso’s Westside at least once every six months. During these visits, our dental professionals clean your teeth. Dr. Darancou also evaluates the condition of your teeth, gums, and mouth to get ahead of problems. These proactive services minimize the risk factors for dental decay and periodontal (gum) disease. 

Protecting your health 

Your mouth naturally contains more than 300 species of bacteria. Some types of bacteria have been implicated in destructive diseases, such as advanced periodontal disease. Plus, the balance between harmful and beneficial bacteria is important. Your oral health can suffer when there is an overabundance of harmful bacteria. 

Bacteria also thrive off of the carbohydrates in our foods and drinks. A sticky bacterial plaque forms when food particles are not removed with adequate or consistent brushing and flossing. This destructive film erodes the teeth and also releases toxins that eventually break down the soft tissue attachments between the teeth and gums and the supportive bone in the jaw. Daily brushing and flossing are a must to prevent this process. Consistent and thorough brushing and flossing removes lingering food particles from the teeth, gum line, and other areas that harbor bacteria (such as the tongue). 

While these behaviors are important, they have their limitations. Notably, plaque is constantly forming on the teeth. Even the most conscientious “brushers” cannot possibly remove all of it. As plaque accumulates, it transforms into tartar or calculus, which hardens over time.

Tartar is stubborn; it can only be removed with professional dental tools and techniques. Our skilled dental hygienists have the training and special instruments to gently and precisely lift highly resistant plaque build-up. In addition to managing your risk factors for developing tooth decay and gum disease, professional cleanings help to keep your teeth looking great and your breath smelling fresh and pleasant. After all, a good cleaning, polishing, and rinsing (with fluoride) also removes surface stains and helps to keep bad breath at bay. 

If it’s been more than six months since your last dental check-up (cleaning and exam), schedule an appointment without delay. El Paso Modern Dentistry can prevent or stop the progression of many oral conditions. Call (915) 221-7001 to reach out to our kind and skilled team in El Paso, TX.

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