What We Do at a Dental Cleaning

Though dental care often means different things to different people, one service all patients should undergo is a dental cleaning and examination, which you should attend at least once every six months. Your dental cleanings allow Dr. Maria and Dr. Thanasi Loukas to periodically remove harmful plaque and tartar from your teeth to prevent the onset of cavities and gum disease. The examination part of your visit involves advanced diagnostics to search for, and treat, early symptoms of dental health issues.

Clean Your Teeth

You might have guessed by the name, but about half of your routine dental visit involves thoroughly cleaning your teeth of plaque (a bacterial biofilm) and tartar (calcified, more stubborn plaque). Your toothbrush and floss should handle the brunt of plaque removal every day, but the spots you miss can harden into tartar, which you can’t remove on your own. Dr. Loukas or one of our talented hygienists will carefully clean every surface of your teeth, including under the gum line, if necessary.

A Little Detective Work

After removing the threat of bacteria from your teeth, Dr. Loukas will look closely at your oral tissues using innovative 3D imaging technology, such as digital X-rays, to search for indications of developing dental diseases. If your tooth enamel is weak, then you might be at an increased risk of cavity development. If your gums are swollen or beginning to separate from your teeth, then Dr. Loukas may have to perform a periodontal cleaning to prevent the formation of gum disease. By addressing issues early, you have a greater chance of avoiding extensive damage and the need for restorative treatment.

Answer Your Questions

Communication is a vital part of improving and maintaining your oral health. Aside from voicing your concerns, we also invite you to ask questions at any point during your visit. If you think of a question after leaving, simply call our office and speak to one of our friendly and experienced staff.

About Your Park Ridge Dentists:

Though we can rebuild your smile if it’s compromised by cavities or gum disease, preventing such issues with improved dental hygiene can help you avoid the need for complex restorative treatment. Dr. Maria and Dr. Thanasi Loukas are highly-skilled general, restorative, and implant dentists serving the Park Ridge and surrounding Chicago communities. To schedule an appointment, call Loukas General Dentistry today at (847) 696-1919.