Preventive Dental Care in Paramus

Daily flossing is just as essential as daily brushing when it comes to keeping up with your oral health. Flossing is easy once you know the proper technique, and can dislodge plaque, bacteria, and food particles that you can’t reach with a toothbrush alone, and is the best way to keep gum disease at bay.

To properly floss, gather about 24 inches of dental floss, and wind most of it around an index or middle finger. Wrap the remaining few inches around the index finger of your other hand, keeping about 1-inch of floss taut between your hands. Gently glide the floss between your teeth, being careful not to force it, as it can slip and damage your gums. If you’re having trouble getting the floss between your teeth, try a gentle side-to-side rocking motion instead. Once the floss is between your teeth, follow the c-shaped curve of the tooth and slide it into the gum line, and repeat for both sides of every tooth. Also, be sure to wind a new 1-inch section of floss between teeth to help prevent the spread of bacteria.

Prophylactic cleanings, also called preventive or “regular” cleanings, are performed during your routine dental appointments. They should be scheduled every 6 months, and are essential in helping to prevent decay, gum disease, and to keep your breath fresh. During these cleanings, we’ll remove any plaque, tartar, or bacterial buildup and floss between your teeth to ensure your continued oral health.

Periodontal cleanings, sometimes referred to as “deep cleanings,” are for patients with periodontal, or gum, disease. These cleaning sessions are more thorough, and are aimed at halting the progression of gum disease. Your dentists or hygienist will scrape away any plaque or tartar buildup from between your teeth and below the gum line. They may also carefully smooth out the roots of your teeth, to eliminate pockets that trap bacteria and allow gum disease to flourish.

Most dental insurance policies fully cover routine preventive care like cleanings, exams, and x-rays. However, some plans may only partially cover preventive dental care. Certain policies may even cover optional treatments, like dental sealants and fluoride treatments. The best way to find out what your plan covers is to review your policy or get in touch with your provider for specific details. Or, you can give us a call today to speak with one of our friendly team members to see how we can help you maximize your benefits.