Oral hygiene is about more than maintaining healthy and attractive-looking teeth. Dental hygiene refers to caring for the teeth; however, we at Scott and Derry Dental Care appreciate that healthy teeth depend on surrounding tissues and other oral (mouth) structures. From our office in Milton, Ontario, we provide professional dental hygiene services and guidance to support the structural integrity, comfort, function, and appearance of the teeth, as well as: 

• Gum or gingival tissue
• Oral mucosa that lines the mouth 
• Tongue and floor of the mouth
• Palate (roof)
• Jaws, joints, muscles, and other interconnected structures and tissues

The importance of dental recall visits

Dental recall visits are generally scheduled bi-annually. Our dental hygienists remove surface stains, bacteria, plaque, and stubborn tartar from the teeth and gum line during these visits. Hardened plaque or tartar cannot be removed with a standard toothbrush — removal instead requires specialized instruments and the skill of dental professionals like our hygienists. Additionally, probing instruments are used to gently measure the spaces between the teeth and gums as progressive gum disease causes these periodontal pockets to grow larger. These measurements tell us if gum disease is present and the stage or extent of the condition. Our dentist can then develop therapies to resolve gingival inflammation and promote healing and healthy attachment of the gums to the teeth. 

Your dentist will also examine your teeth, gums, and other oral tissues. Digital x-rays aid in these routine examinations because they can detect what cannot be pinpointed with the eyes alone; for instance, decay may be “hidden,” or early-stage gum disease (gingivitis) may produce very subtle changes. Often, oral diseases are asymptomatic in their earliest stages, which only underscores the importance of recall visits.