Most patients are encouraged to receive a professional routine cleaning every six months. Often, the hygiene visit will coincide with the routine dental exam. The purpose of hygiene visits is to clean teeth and gum surfaces of plaque and tartar, which may accumulate over time.

Plaque is very concerning due to its subtle nature. This substance cannot be seen with the naked eye and has no odor. It adheres to teeth, sometimes resisting removal in home care. The instruments and techniques used in the dental office are more effective than a standard toothbrush at removing sticky, dangerous plaque.

The reason that we place importance on plaque removal is that plaque harbors unhealthy bacteria. When plaque remains on teeth, it hardens into tartar, which is difficult to remove. Both substances are welcoming to bacteria and supportive to acidity in the mouth, which creates the prime environment for disease.

During your hygiene visit at Dentistry on Parkdale, our hygienist will work diligently to remove debris, plaque, and tartar from all tooth surfaces. Care is provided in a meticulous, gentle manner. We want your dental experiences with us to be as pleasant and comfortable as possible. Additionally, education may be provided on the topic of home care, enabling you to maintain your healthiest smile in between visits.

Oral cancer screening

We know from extensive research that oral cancer is a condition that has a good prognosis when detected early. The routine screening process for oral cancer involves evaluation of soft tissues, including the lips, for signs of precancerous or cancerous lesions.

There are certain factors that increase the benefit of routine cancer screenings. These include:

  • Smoking or the use of any tobacco product
  • High alcohol consumption
  • Excessive sun exposure, which can lead to cancer on the lip
  • Previous oral cancer diagnosis

Any type of cancer requires focused attention for cure. Dr. Karen Ho is committed to helping her patients avoid this and other unhealthy oral conditions. Patients of Dentistry on Parkdale receive personal attention from our team that promotes healthy teeth and gums. Contact our office today to schedule your exam, cleaning, and cancer screening.

Dr. Karen Ho, Dentistry on Parkdale

Dr. Karen Ho is a trusted dentist serving patients of all ages in Hamilton, Ontario. Having studied at prestigious institutes such as McMaster University and University of Toronto and trained at Hartford Hospital (General Practice Residency), she opened her private practice in 2003.

Dr. Ho is committed to lifelong learning as she believes that she can serve her community better by constantly updating herself. She is affiliated with many professional organisations like the Academy of General Dentistry, Institute for Clinical Practice of Pediatric Dentistry, The Dawson Academy Study Club, Niagara Peninsula Dental Diagnostic Study Club, Hamilton Chapter of the Seattle Study Club (Founding Member), and Boston and Tufts Universities.

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Please check out our free, downloadable guides about Sedation Dentistry and Early Childhood Dental Care. Dentistry on Parkdale is committied to providing valuable oral health to all of our patients.