Dental Care

Good dental care keeps you feeling and looking your best.

Maintaining oral health is easy. It just takes a little time each day and some help from your friends at Zen Dental.

• At your initial examination, we’ll evaluate your oral hygiene procedures and the condition of your teeth and gums
• A regular cleaning, above the gum line removes plaque and stains
• X-rays uncover issues that aren’t visible; decay between teeth, bone loss, or problems with your jaw
• Future appointments depend, in large part, on whether you have active gum disease

Gums and bones are the foundation of your teeth. If we find signs of gingivitis (the early stage of gum disease), or periodontitis (more severe pocketing around the roots of teeth, with bone loss and loss of attachment), we will literally probe further. Perio probing and measurements help us determine the extent of your gum disease. A deep cleaning, scaling and root planing, uses topical anesthetic to numb your gums for 20 to 30 minutes as we go below the gum line to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria, allowing gums and bone to heal.

Gum disease is an infection in your mouth, which reaches your bloodstream. Pregnant women have accelerated risk due to hormonal changes. And, the health ramifications can be serious as it is linked to heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Home care is critical! Keep your smile bright and beautiful between visits.

Brush at least twice a day with an electric toothbrush. Invest in a good-quality instrument with a two-minute timer. It will clean well with less pressure. Aggressive brushing with a manual toothbrush damages gum tissue, which doesn’t grow back (it can only be repaired with gum grafts or bonding). This contributes to gum recession, sensitivity, and decay.

Floss every day. Don’t stop if you see a little blood. Flossing strengthens gums and fights gum disease. Bleeding will decrease as your gum become healthier.

Mouth rinses are good as they can freshen breath, fight plaque, and whiten teeth. But don’t over-rely on them. They don’t replace brushing, flossing, and regular visits to Zen Dental.