Why Your Dental Hygienist Is Using That “Pointy Tool”

Golfers know that a low number is a good thing. With most courses having a 72 rating as par, being close to that number or even below is what golfers pursue.

Low numbers can be the goal in other areas, dentistry being one of them. Having minimal “depths” of loose gum tissues that surround the base of teeth is what a thorough at-home oral hygiene regimen should help achieve. The care one takes between their 6-month dental cleanings are how individuals help to keep the gum tissues healthy and avoid cavities and gum disease.

“Why is it important to keep gum tissues snugly wrapped around the base of teeth?”

In a healthy mouth, the gums provide a seal at the base of teeth to prevent entry of bacteria. Without a tight seal, “pockets” form. These are areas where the gums have loosened their tight grip and the tooth. These pockets occur when the sticky film of plaque is not thoroughly removed. Within days plaque hardens into a mass of bacteria known as tartar.

“How many times a day do I need to brush my teeth?”

To prevent plaque and its progression to tartar, it is generally recommended to brush twice a day and floss daily. However, some individuals, such as those who have “dry mouth” on a frequent basis, should take extra measures. When saliva flow cannot sufficiently rinse food particles and oral bacteria from the mouth, bacteria buildup occurs more easily.

However, it’s not necessarily the number of times one goes to the sink; the techniques used to brush thoroughly each time are what make this time truly effective. The recommendation is to brush at least two minutes per time. All sides of teeth should be reached including the tops of teeth. Use a swirling motion with light pressure. Never “scrub” teeth using a back and forth motion as this can be wearing to tender gum tissues.

Daily flossing is also advised. This removes bits caught between teeth and disrupts existing bacteria between the margins of teeth. Flossing takes just a minute or so once the individual is used to the maneuvers. Most people “in the habit” of flossing cannot imagine not having this as part of their daily oral care. If flossing is difficult for you, check out our “Flossing Made Easy” video for step by step pointers. You may also want to consider purchasing an electronic water flosser. These are easy to use and can be highly effective.

“During my dental cleanings, what do the numbers mean that my hygienist says as she’s moving the probe around?”

Periodontal probing is the main tool used by dentists for evaluating the severity of periodontal disease. Probing is also the recommended system in the U.S. to calculate levels of periodontal disease and is endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO).

During the probing process, your Hygienist may call out numbers as she probes different points around each tooth. The probe has numbered tic marks that show the depths it is able to go when placed between the tooth’s base and the gums.

These are recorded in your patient chart. Hearing a 1 or 2 is an indication of healthy gums. Measured depths of 3 and 4 indicate the presence of bacterial inflammation. This means the gum tissues are loose and able to hold bacteria in the pockets that have formed as a result.

When gum disease is classified at depths of 5 or 6, periodontal disease has begun. With these depths, the gums likely bleed easily and are red and tender. Anything over 6 indicates periodontitis, a more severe level of gum disease. With these measurements, imaging, and an examination, your dentist can determine the level of gum disease present as well as the treatment needed.

Periodontal disease is the nation’s leading cause of adult tooth loss. It affects over 80% of the population at some time in their life. This is why your 6-month dental check-ups include ‘probing’ of the gums.

Please contact us soon if you notice any of these common signs of gum disease:
• Red, swollen or tender gums
• Seeing blood in the sink when brushing
• Receded gums
• Loose or separating teeth
• Pus pockets on gum tissues
• Sores in the mouth
• Persistent bad breath

Early diagnosis of gum disease can prevent or minimize damage to teeth, supporting bone and connective tissues around teeth. Gum disease in initial stages (when bleeding is noticed while brushing teeth, for example) can often be treated with a thorough dental cleaning and committed at-home oral hygiene routine.

However, many people with periodontal disease delay care, allowing damage to progress. In addition to tooth loss, gum disease bacteria can create inflammatory triggers in the body. The bacteria associated with gum disease has been associated with severe health problems, including heart disease, stroke, arthritis, diabetes, memory loss, pre-term babies and more.

If you have delayed or avoided your 6-month dental check-ups, you are missing an important step in maintaining good overall health in addition to a healthy smile. If you find that dental check-ups and cleanings are uncomfortable, mention this to your Hygienist at the beginning of your appointment.

Call 586-739-2155 if you’ve noticed bleeding when brushing, have sore or swollen spots on gum tissue, have persistent bad breath, or have gums that are red rather than a healthy pink. Our Shelby Township dental office treats nearly every stage of gum disease, restoring both oral health and helping you avoid the complications of tooth reveal and replacement. However, the sooner you receive treatment, the less involved your treatment needs will be.

If dental anxiety is a concern, rest assured that patient comfort is a high priority at our Macomb County dental office. Here, we offer both oral and I.V. sedation in addition to advanced technology that helps to lessen treatment time and optimize comfort.

You can also schedule a free consultation online at: Free Consult

And, get to know us at: Office Tour

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4530316/#R89

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554590/