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Federal Way Family Dental Care Dr. Mahoutchi DMD
Dr. Parkinson
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Preventive Dentistry, Cleanings, and Exams |
Professional Cleanings
Professional cleanings performed by a hygienist are just as important to your dental health as daily brushing and flossing. Using specialized tools and training, your hygienist will: |  |
• Remove plaque build-up from the surfaces of teeth. (Bacteria in the mouth form plaque, which collects on teeth and causes decay, gum disease, and gingivitis.)
• Remove tartar from teeth surfaces. (Tartar, or calculus, is plaque that has become so hardened on the teeth that its removal requires special procedures. Tartar below the gum line is also an indicator of gum disease.)
• Remove surface stains from teeth through polishing.
Examinations
Regular examinations help detect and prevent health issues before they become serious. Consistent dental check-ups help catch problems when they are small and easier to treat. Left unattended, small treatable problems become worse and may require more extensive, expensive procedures to repair. Dental examinations generally include the following:
• Gum Disease screening
• Oral Cancer screening
• Visual tooth decay evaluation
• Visual gum disease examination
• Gum pocket measurement and tracking
• X-ray examination to detect: tooth decay, cysts, tumors, problems below the gums and other hidden issues
Regular examinations are very important for your health. Remember, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." –Benjamin Franklin
X-rays (Radiographs)
X-rays are a primary tool for early identification of dental problems. Detecting issues with X-rays before they become problems can save you money in the long run by preventing the need for more extensive, expensive procedures or surgeries. X-rays are primarily used to detect:
• Internal tooth decay
• Cysts (fluid filled sacks at the base of your teeth)
• Tumors, both cancerous and non-cancerous
• Impacted teeth
• Teeth that are still coming in
Digital X-ray advantages over traditional X-rays
• They emit up to 90% less radiation
• They are ready for examination nearly instantly
• They can be viewed on a computer screen
• Their image can be refined and enlarged
• They are greener; no chemicals are needed for processing
Sealants
Sealants are generally used to help prevent tooth decay on the biting surfaces of back teeth (molars). The natural grooves of these teeth can trap food that can resist casual brushing and rinsing. If left in place, the trapped food allows bacteria to multiply, eventually causing tooth decay and requiring costly attention.
Sealants are painted directly onto the tooth where they seal the natural grooves to help prevent tooth decay. While sealants are durable, they are not permanent. They can last up to 5 years of normal wear before needing replacement.
Sealants offer a cost-effective, preventative step to reduce the chances of tooth decay on the chewing surfaces of molars. However, they do not replace the need for regular brushing and flossing.
Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease)
Gum disease accounts for approximately 70% of all tooth loss in adults. Early signs of gum disease include bleeding gums when flossing or brushing and gums that are red, inflamed, or swollen.
Gum disease and tooth decay are caused by the same bacteria. These bacteria form plaque beneath the gum-line, which eats away at the bond between tooth and gum. If deterioration is allowed to continue, "pockets" form in between the teeth and the gums. Pockets deeper than 3ml may require special treatment to remove the bacteria and plaque. Without treatment and continuous maintenance, gum disease will eventually weaken the bonds that hold the teeth in place.
There is no permanent treatment for gum disease. However, it can be kept under control with proper personal hygiene and regular visits to a trained dentist or hygienist.
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| Great Snacks for Healthy Gums |
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Having healthy gums takes work. It doesn't just miraculously happen simply because you want it to. The way you take care of your mouth and what you eat have a significant impact on just how healthy, or unhealthy, your gums really are. If you are carefully maintaining your gum health with thorough brushing and flossing, then it is important you eat the right foods to make sure you are doing everything possible to keep your gums really healthy.
Snack Items to Regularly Consume for Healthy Gums
Produce should be your go-to snack if you want to have healthy gums. While it may not always taste as good as the sweet or starchy snacks and treats, it is far better for your body. Fruits are a great alternative if you are looking for a sweet snack, especially if you buy fruits that are in season. Also, don't forget about adding more vegetables into your diet since eating raw leafy greens and celery will help your gums stay healthy.
Ideally, you want to eat your produce with the skin on since the skin contains fiber that is beneficial to your overall health. This skin is what pushes on your gums, stimulating them to hold tight to your teeth. Plus, it scrubs off the tartar on your teeth with each bite you take.
Planning out your snacks ahead of time can help you get the healthiest mouth possible. Taking care of your gums and teeth can also help you keep your body healthier overall. To learn more about taking care of your gums, ask us at your next appointment!
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Federal Way Family Dental Care - Mo Mahoutchi, DMD | ausinkdental.com
| 253-838-6200
2345 SW 320th Street, Federal Way, WA 98023-2568
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Federal Way Family Dental Care - Mo Mahoutchi, DMD, 2345 SW 320th Street, Federal Way, WA 98023-2568 • 253-838-6200 • ausinkdental.com • 10/5/2024 • Key Phrases: dentist Federal Way WA •
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