At San Mateo Dental Care, we believe that preventative care, including regular cleanings and oral hygiene treatments, is essential for maintaining optimal dental health. Our team of dental professionals is dedicated to helping you maintain healthy teeth and gums with the latest techniques and technologies in dental care.
Regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health. While brushing and flossing are important daily habits, they cannot remove all the plaque and bacteria that can accumulate on teeth and gums over time. Even with proper home care, it’s easy for plaque to build up in hard-to-reach areas, leading to decay and gum disease. This is where professional cleanings come in. During a cleaning, a dental hygienist or dentist can remove the buildup of plaque and tartar, leaving teeth and gums clean and healthy. It’s important to note that the frequency of cleanings can vary depending on individual needs. Patients who are at a higher risk of gum disease may need to come in for cleanings more frequently than every six months to maintain their oral health. Your dentist can help determine the appropriate frequency of cleanings based on your individual needs.
During your cleaning appointment, our dental hygienist will gently and efficiently remove bacteria, plaque, and tartar from your teeth and gums. Dr. Taw will also perform a comprehensive oral exam to check for cavities and other dental issues, including oral cancers. By maintaining regular cleanings and oral hygiene treatments, you can prevent potential dental issues and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
To maintain optimal dental health, it is important to brush your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste. Flossing at least once a day is also recommended to remove food particles and bacteria from between your teeth. We recommend using a soft-bristled toothbrush and replacing it every three to four months, or more frequently if the bristles are frayed or visibly damaged. Both manual and electric toothbrushes can be effective, according to the American Dental Association.
Our dental hygienists can provide you with hands-on demonstrations of effective brushing techniques at your next appointment. We can also provide guidance on the right home hygiene tools and products for your oral condition, as well as dental nutritional counseling.