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Limpiezas dentales
Las limpiezas dentales periódicas son fundamentales para mantener una sonrisa bonita y un cuerpo sano. Estas limpiezas, realizadas por profesionales dentales, van más allá del cepillado y el uso del hilo dental habituales para eliminar la placa y el sarro acumulados que no se pueden eliminar fácilmente en casa. Además, su profesional dental puede identificar factores individuales que pueden predisponer a un paciente a la inflamación y la enfermedad y, a continuación, puede educar a los pacientes sobre cómo mejorar su atención para mantener una salud óptima. Nuestra filosofÃa clÃnica se basa en la idea de que "es mejor prevenir que curar". Nuestro objetivo real es capacitar a nuestros pacientes para que comprendan y optimicen la complejidad de su sistema, que incluye su historia, su entorno y sus hábitos.
¿Por qué son importantes las limpiezas dentales?
Eliminación de placa y sarro:
La placa es una pelÃcula pegajosa de bacterias que se forma sobre los dientes y las encÃas. Con el tiempo, se endurece y se convierte en sarro, que no se puede eliminar solo con el cepillado. La acumulación de sarro aumenta el riesgo de enfermedades de las encÃas, caries y otros problemas de salud bucal. Las limpiezas dentales eliminan eficazmente tanto la placa como el sarro, lo que ayuda a mantener los dientes y las encÃas saludables.
Prevención de la enfermedad de las encÃas:
La enfermedad de las encÃas, también conocida como enfermedad periodontal, es una afección común que afecta las encÃas y los tejidos circundantes. Si no se trata, puede provocar la pérdida de dientes e incluso afectar la salud general . De hecho, la enfermedad periodontal crónica se ha relacionado con afecciones sistémicas comprometidas, como trastornos neurológicos como el Alzheimer y la demencia, asà como enfermedades cardiovasculares. Las limpiezas dentales periódicas ayudan a eliminar las bacterias y la placa que contribuyen a la enfermedad de las encÃas, lo que reduce el riesgo de su desarrollo o progresión.
Detección temprana de problemas dentales:
Durante las limpiezas dentales, los dentistas o higienistas examinan minuciosamente la boca, los dientes y las encÃas. Esto permite la detección temprana de problemas dentales como caries, grietas, patologÃa bucal y signos de enfermedad de las encÃas . La identificación temprana permite un tratamiento rápido, evitando que el problema empeore y requiera potencialmente procedimientos más extensos y costosos.
Aliento fresco:
El mal aliento persistente, o halitosis, puede ser vergonzoso e indicar problemas de salud bucal subyacentes. Las limpiezas dentales ayudan a eliminar la acumulación de bacterias que pueden causar malos olores, lo que da como resultado un aliento más fresco y una mayor confianza.
Estética mejorada:
Las limpiezas dentales pueden contribuir a lograr una sonrisa más brillante y atractiva. Al eliminar las manchas superficiales y la decoloración causada por ciertos alimentos, bebidas o el consumo de tabaco, además de reducir la inflamación gingival, las limpiezas ayudan a restaurar el brillo natural de los dientes y pueden maximizar el tamaño de la estructura dental visible, mejorando la estética general de la sonrisa.
Beneficios generales para la salud:
La salud bucal está estrechamente relacionada con la salud general. Los malos hábitos bucales y las infecciones bucales no tratadas se han asociado con un mayor riesgo de enfermedades sistémicas como enfermedades cardiovasculares, diabetes y problemas respiratorios. Las limpiezas dentales periódicas desempeñan un papel fundamental en el mantenimiento de la salud bucal, reduciendo el riesgo de estos problemas de salud sistémicos.
¿Qué es la enfermedad periodontal?
Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a chronic bacterial infection that affects the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. It is caused by the buildup of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, on the teeth and along the gumline. Patients can have a genetic predisposition to develop this condition, but habits will determine whether the disease is present or the patient demonstrates a healthy condition. The leading habits that influence development of periodontal disease include oral hygiene habits (brushing and flossing), the presence of a sleep-related breathing disorder (ie. snoring, mouth breathing), clenching and grinding, nutrition and supplementation, and hydration.
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Periodontal disease progresses in stages, starting with gingivitis, characterized by red, swollen, and bleeding gums. If gingivitis is not addressed, it can advance to periodontitis, where the infection spreads below the gumline, causing the gums to pull away from the teeth and forming pockets that become infected. Over time, these pockets deepen, resulting in bone loss and potential tooth loss.
¿Cómo se trata la enfermedad periodontal?
(1) Scaling and Root Planing: This non-surgical procedure, also known as a deep cleaning, is often the initial treatment for periodontal disease. It involves removing plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline (scaling) and smoothing the tooth roots (root planing) to eliminate bacterial buildup and promote gum reattachment. Pending the severity of a patients disease, your provider may recommend performing the procedure using local anesthetic and/or nitrous oxide sedation. Additionally, the provider may recommend breaking the procedure up into two or more separate appointments, working on parts of the mouth at each visit.
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(2) Ongoing Oral Hygiene and Home Care: Consistent and thorough oral hygiene practices are vital for managing and preventing periodontal disease. This includes regular brushing with a soft-bristle toothbrush, flossing or using interdental cleaners to clean between teeth, and incorporating biocompatible mouth rinses if recommended by the dentist.
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(3) Nutritional and Dietary Support: Our approach to periodontal disease emphasizes the importance of a nutrient-rich diet to support oral health and overall well-being. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods, such as fruits, vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids, and probiotics, can help reduce inflammation and support gum health. High levels of vitamin D has been shown to be correlated with optimal oral health. Additionally, eliminating high inflammatory foods that are heavily processed or contain sugar (sucrose, not fructose) can have a very positive impact on oral and whole-body health.
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(4) Stress Management: Chronic stress can weaken the immune system and contribute to the progression of periodontal disease. Holistic treatment may include stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, or mindfulness practices to promote relaxation and support oral health.
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(5) Resolving sleep-related breathing disorders: Pending the root cause of a patient's case, there are a variety of interventions (both over-the-counter and prescribed therapeutics) to address this chronic condition.
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(6) Additional Lifestyle Changes: Certain lifestyle factors can contribute to the development or progression of periodontal disease. Quitting tobacco products, exercising, and staying well hydrated can support the effectiveness of treatment and overall oral health.
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(7) Biocompatible Materials: During your initial exam, we will recommend an individualized plan that includes various biocompatible materials to use in your daily routine. These materials are less likely to cause adverse reactions or sensitivity in patients, promoting overall health and well-being.
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(8) Collaboration with Healthcare Providers: A holistic approach recognizes the importance of collaboration with other healthcare professionals. Occasionally, this may involve working closely with nutritionists, internists, ENTs, sleep physicians, functional medicine practitioners, or other providers to address underlying health conditions and develop an integrative treatment plan.
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(9) Referral to Specialist: In more advanced cases of periodontal disease, surgical procedures and/or more advanced therapeutics (such as laser therapy) may be necessary to address your condition. These procedures aim to reduce pocket depths, regenerate bone and gum tissue, and improve the overall structure and health of the affected areas. Examples of advanced interventions include flap surgery, bone grafts, guided tissue regeneration, LANAP laser therapy. Fortunately, we have a really fantastic periodontist in Dorado to whom we refer, and we've seen great results in co-treating our patients.
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(10) Periodontal Maintenance: Following initial treatment, regular periodontal maintenance visits are crucial to monitor the condition and prevent disease progression. These visits involve professional cleanings, thorough examination of the gums, and reinforcement of oral hygiene practices.
Preguntas frecuentes:
Q: How often should I get a dental cleaning?
A: Dental cleaning frequency depends on individual oral health needs. In general, most people benefit from professional cleanings every six months. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings every 3-4 months if you have specific oral health concerns, such as gum disease or a history of tooth decay.
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Q: Will dental cleanings remove stains from my teeth?
A: Dental cleanings can help remove some surface stains caused by coffee, tea, tobacco, or certain foods. However, deep intrinsic stains may require additional treatments like teeth whitening to achieve the desired results.
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Q: Are dental cleanings painful?
A: Dental cleanings are typically not painful, especially if a patient has maintained good oral hygiene habits at home. During the process, dental professionals use specialized instruments to gently remove plaque, tartar, and stains. You may experience mild discomfort or sensitivity, particularly if your gums are inflamed or sensitive. Inform your dental hygienist about any discomfort you feel so they can adjust the cleaning technique accordingly.
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Q: Can dental cleanings prevent gum disease?
A: Regular dental cleanings are an essential part of preventing gum disease. Cleanings remove plaque and tartar that can lead to gum inflammation and infection. Additionally, dental professionals assess your gum health during cleanings and guide proper oral hygiene practices to prevent gum disease.
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Q: How long does a dental cleaning appointment usually take?
A: The duration of a dental cleaning appointment can vary depending on several factors, such as the amount of buildup, the overall health of your gums, and the thoroughness of the cleaning. Typically, dental cleanings last between 30 minutes to an hour. If you have periodontal disease, then a deep cleaning can take approximately 90-120 min, which is why this procedure is often broken into at least two separate appointments.
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Q: What can I expect during a dental cleaning?
A: During a dental cleaning, a dental hygienist or dentist will use special tools to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, including those hard-to-reach areas. They will also polish your teeth to remove surface stains and make them smooth. If necessary, they may take X-rays or perform other diagnostic procedures to assess your oral health.
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Q: Can I have a dental cleaning if I have sensitive teeth or gum disease?
A: Yes, you can still have a dental cleaning if you have sensitive teeth or gum disease. Dental professionals will adjust the cleaning technique and use techniques and instruments that minimize discomfort. They may also recommend desensitizing products or treatments to help manage sensitivity.
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Q: Can I get "just a cleaning" without anything else?
A: In order to assess your periodontal health and determine what type of cleaning a patient needs, the doctor needs to perform a comprehensive exam, which includes the following:
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A review of a patient's dental and medical history,
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Discussion on habits such as nutrition, hydration, supplementation, sleep, breathing, and oral hygiene,
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Analysis of dental xrays
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Analysis of 3D scan and occlusogram
If you have had full xrays within the past 12 months, then you can forward those to our office at admin@doradodentalwellness.com to use during your exam to avoid taking any unnecessary xrays. This comprehensive evaluation prior to a dental cleaning is in the patient's best interest to establish a baseline for overall oral health and to identify any contributing variables that can be improved to enhance overall wellness.
After this initial evaluation, then a patient does not require an exam before each cleaning as long as health is stable, and instead can be seen for periodic exams once per year or more frequently based on change in patient needs or preferences.
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Remember, these FAQs provide general information, and it's essential to consult with your dentist or dental hygienist for personalized advice and to address any specific concerns you may have about dental cleanings.
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