Maintaining good oral health starts with prevention and early detection, which help reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. A consistent at-home regimen, paired with routine professional cleanings and exams, can prevent the need for costly dental procedures. Plaque, a colorless bacteria that adheres to the teeth, and calculus, a hardened mineral deposit, are primary causes of decay and periodontal disease. Proper daily hygiene, including brushing and flossing, plays a critical role in oral disease prevention.
Dr. Peter Kim's extensive education and commitment to preventive dental care make Designed Smiles a leader in oral health maintenance. With a degree from NYU and over two decades of experience, Dr. Kim emphasizes the importance of regular cleanings and exams to prevent costly dental issues. His expertise in Invisalign, implant restorations, and aesthetic dentistry ensures that every patient receives customized, high-quality care tailored to their unique oral health needs.
Cleanings
Regular dental cleanings, performed by a registered dental hygienist, are a crucial part of preventive dental care. By removing plaque and tartar, your oral health is enhanced and your risk of gingivitis and periodontal disease are reduced. Your dental hygienist will utilize manual instruments to remove moderate plaque and tartar buildup, or an ultrasonic device to scale away heavier buildup. The cleaning is finished with polishing, a pleasant procedure that cleans the surface of teeth, removes stains, and leaves the mouth feeling clean and refreshed.
Exams
No matter how diligent you are in your home dental care regimen, you should still get a dental exam and cleaning at least twice per year. The importance of regular dental exams cannot be overemphasized - dental exams are the cornerstone of good dental health. In particular, regular checkups are essential for early detection of more serious problems. Early detection makes treatment easier, less expensive and more successful and effective. During your dental exam, our dentist will perform the following routine checks:
- Examine and assess gum health; check for gum disease.
- Diagnose any existing tooth decay.
- When indicated, take and analyze x-rays, which may reveal decay, bone loss, abscesses, tumors, cysts, and other problems.
- Screen for the presence of oral cancer.
- Verify the stability of any existing fillings or other restorations.
- Inform you of all findings and make treatment recommendations.
Brushing
As damaging as plaque can be, it is easily removed by mechanical brushing. Plaque deposits build up on the teeth fairly quickly after eating and drinking, and if they are not brushed away at least twice a day, they can lead to tooth decay and periodontal disease. It takes just one day for bacteria to build up enough to make your mouth susceptible to disease.
If plaque is not removed, it hardens and becomes calculus (tartar). Calculus cannot be removed with regular brushing. Your hygienist has special instruments designed to remove tartar.
Flossing
Daily flossing is an effective way to clean teeth where regular brushing can't reach. To floss properly, take 18" of dental floss, wrap it around the middle finger of each hand, and pinch it between your thumb and index finger. Pull the floss taut, then slide it gently between each tooth and under the gum line. Slide the floss up and down the side of each tooth to remove plaque buildup. Be sure to use a clean section of floss as you move from tooth to tooth.
Mouth Rinses
Over-the-counter mouth rinses can help to fight bad breath, remove loose food particles after brushing, and freshen the mouth. However, mouth rinses are never a substitute for brushing, flossing, or regular dental examinations, and may disguise warning signs of periodontal disease.
Mouth Rinse
Over-the-counter mouth rinses can play a beneficial role in oral hygiene by reducing bacteria, fighting bad breath, and helping to remove food particles after brushing. Some mouth rinses also contain fluoride, which can strengthen enamel and protect against cavities. However, while these rinses can support oral health, they should never replace daily brushing and flossing. Regular dental exams are essential to detect potential gum disease and tooth decay early, ensuring long-term oral health.
Signs of Poor Oral Hygiene
Early symptoms of dental problems can lead to more severe conditions if not addressed promptly. Common warning signs include persistent bad breath, tooth sensitivity, bleeding or swollen gums, and discomfort when chewing. If left untreated, minor dental issues can progress to infections, gum disease, or even tooth loss. Regular dental visits help detect and treat these problems early, preserving your oral health.
Why Choose Designed Smiles?
At Designed Smiles, Dr. Peter Kim and his experienced team provide personalized and compassionate dental care. With advanced training in Invisalign, implant restorations, and cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Kim ensures that every patient receives tailored treatment in a welcoming environment. Our state-of-the-art equipment and patient-focused approach make us a trusted choice for dental care in Brea and Anaheim, CA.
Book Your Next Dental Visit with Us
Take the next step toward optimal oral health by scheduling an appointment at Designed Smiles. Whether you need a routine cleaning or advanced dental treatment, our team is here to help. Call us at (714) 529-0100 to book your visit today.