Stuart Prosthetic Dentistry provides dental debridement in Stuart, FL. Call
to learn more and schedule an appointment.We get it, sometimes it is just hard to keep track of your regular dental hygiene appointments.
Sadly, when plaque goes uncleaned or builds up, it becomes calculus (tartar) which is hard and more difficult to remove. If you’ve missed several checkups, the calculus buildup may be severe and stubborn to remove.
In this case, your dentist may recommend for you to get a dental debridement before completing a checkup or comprehensive examination. If the dentist suggests this procedure, don’t worry. It’s necessary for your oral health and to begin to get you back on track.
What is a dental debridement?
The American Dental Association (ADA) defines debridement as "Removal of subgingival and/or supragingival plaque and calculus which obstructs the ability to perform an evaluation." It's a lengthy definition, but it basically means that it happens before your regular checkup when a typical cleaning isn't enough to evaluate the health of your teeth.
There is nothing to fear about our cleaning process
Usually, a simple professional cleaning (prophylaxis) or periodontal maintenance by a Registered Dental Hygienist is enough to prep your teeth for a routine checkup. But, if your teeth have been neglected, and buildup has obstructed the view, the dental hygienist will remove the calculus and plaque with an ultrasonic device and scaling tools during a longer appointment to clean your teeth prior to your checkup. This process isn't typically included in the cost of your appointment and, because it takes more time, may require you to make a special appointment before your checkup or new patient examination. After a debridement, your doctor is now able to better diagnose any further complications and the hygienist can proceed with a professional cleaning or periodontal treatment.
There is nothing to fear about our cleaning process; it may cause a little tenderness in your gums as they begin to heal. It is also important to remember to take special care of your teeth after debridement to avoid the accumulation of calculus once again.
Brush, floss, eat a healthy diet, and visit us regularly for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Call our office today at 772.286.1606 to schedule an appointment.