Dental Hygiene Care
Chilliwack Family Dentistry hygiene care includes not only dental cleaning, fluoride and a thorough examination by one of our experienced dentists, it also recognizes the importance of good oral hygiene instruction and preventative care. Our modern and comfortable office is located in Chilliwack, BC.
Cleaning & Prevention
Professional dental cleanings are performed by our Registered Dental Hygienists and includes the following:
- Removal of Tartar: Tartar is hardened plaque that has been left on the tooth for more than 48 hours and becomes firmly attached to the tooth surface. Tartar forms above and below the gum line and can only be removed with special dental instruments.
- Removal of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth from the bacteria in your mouth. Untreated, bacteria can produce toxins that cause inflammation, causing the start of periodontal disease, which leads to the toxins that destroy the bone that supports your teeth.
- Teeth polishing: Polishing removes stains and plaque that are not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.
Prevention
Fluoride is the most effective agent available to help prevent tooth decay. It is a mineral that is present in varying amounts in food and water supplies. The benefits of fluoride have been well known for over 50 years and are supported by many health and professional organizations.
Fluoride is introduced into your system in two ways:
- Topical fluoride strengthens children’s teeth once they have erupted by seeping into the outer surface of the tooth enamel, making the teeth more resistant to decay. Topical fluoride is available commercially in dental products such as toothpaste, mouth rinses, and gels – make sure that you read the labels of all products and look for fluoride. Additionally, we recommend that children and adults have a professional application of fluoride twice a year during dental check-ups.
- Systemic fluoride strengthens children’s teeth that have erupted, as well as those that are developing under the gums. In Canada, systemic fluoride is available from many foods and from our community water supplies. It is also available as a supplement in drop or gel form and can be prescribed by your dentist or physician. Generally, fluoride drops are recommended for infants, and tablets are best suited for children up through the teen years. It is important to monitor the amounts of fluoride a child ingests. Too much fluoride while teeth are developing can cause a condition called fluorosis (white spots on the teeth). Too little fluoride while teeth are developing may result in significant and early tooth decay.
Although most people receive fluoride from food and water, sometimes it is not enough to help prevent decay. We may recommend the use of home and/or professional fluoride treatments if we assess any one, or more, of the following conditions:
- Deep pits and fissures on the chewing surfaces of teeth.
- Exposed and sensitive root surfaces.
- Fair to poor oral hygiene habits.
- Frequent sugar and carbohydrate intake.
- Insufficient use of systemic or topical fluorides
- Inadequate saliva flow due to medical conditions, medical treatments or medications.
- Recent history of dental decay.
Please recognize that fluoride alone will not prevent tooth decay! It is important to brush at least twice a day, floss regularly and effectively, eat balanced meals, reduce sugary snacks and come in to Chilliwack Family Dentistry for regular cleaning and dental check-ups.
We look forward to your next visit;
book your dentist appointment today!