Professional teeth cleanings are a “must” for oral health and will complement home hygiene

Cleaning your teeth at home is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to maintaining excellent oral health and avoiding conditions such as dental decay and periodontal (gum) disease. However, professional cleanings at West Suburban Oral Health Care in Naperville, Illinois, are fundamental to the hygiene that promotes lasting healthy smiles, systemic health, and overall wellbeing. Additionally, cleanings are about so much more than removing food particles and other substances that encourage the development of harmful plaque.

What to expect

Standard cleanings are scheduled once every six months. They occur at the same routine appointment where one of our dentists, Drs. Susan Mazzei, Kelsey Esposito, and Ashley Nguyen, examines your mouth. If you are at increased risk of developing oral conditions due to factors such as smoking, we will generally want to see you more frequently for check-ups.

Our skilled dental hygienists start the process by visually inspecting your oral tissues. They then use specialized instruments, such as probes, to gently measure the spaces between the teeth and gums. These periodontal pockets tell us a great deal about the presence of active gum disease and the extent or stage of periodontal disease; the more extensive the pockets, the more advanced the disease.

Our hygienists have at their disposal many specialized tools to remove harmful bacteria, sticky bacterial plaque, and hardened plaque from the teeth and at the gum line. While they are cleaning your teeth, suggestions may be provided on how to more efficiently or effectively clean the teeth and other areas that may be neglected. These areas include the tongue and palate. We are also happy to provide suggestions on oral care products, and preventive services may be discussed, too. It is important to remember there is no substitute for professional care and that care must be combined with consistent good oral hygiene at home. Remember that our hygienists have the tools to remove what can’t be removed with a standard toothbrush: tartar. They are also trained on how to use these instruments safely and in a way that minimizes potential discomfort.

Patients with active gum disease may also be candidates for a “deep cleaning,” known as scaling and root planing. Routine cleanings are a must for your smile and overall health. So, schedule yours today. Call West Suburban Oral Health Care at 630-393-3045.

Dr. Susan Mazzei is a skilled dentist specializing in prosthodontics. A graduate of Northwestern University Dental School, she completed a Certification in Prosthodontics before joining the faculty of Northwestern University Dental School as a Clinical Assistant Professor, where she served for 12 years and became Assistant Professor Emeritus. Dr. Mazzei believes that excellent oral health begins with education and prevention and is committed to continuing her education. She is a Certified Functional Medicine Health Coach, a Charter Fellow in the American Academy of Oral Systemic Health (AAOSH), and has completed the Bale and Doneen Method Preceptorship Program.

Dr. Kelsey Esposito worked in healthcare advertising and communications before realizing that her passions were dentistry and patient care. She holds a BA in Economics and Fine Art from Kalamazoo College, a Premedicine Post-Baccalaureate Certificate from Northwestern University, and a Doctor of Dental Medicine from The University of Illinois in Chicago. She is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA), Chicago Dental Society (CDS), Illinois Dental Society (IDS), Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, and AAOSH.

Dr. Marco Fajardo is a graduate of Northwestern University Dental School, where he also served as a part-time Assistant Clinical Instructor. He was a member of the University Dental Associates of the University of Chicago too. In 1994, he formed the basis of West Suburban Oral Healthcare with Dr. Mazzei. He is now its Team Leader.

Dr. Ashley Nguyen studied at the University of Buffalo and Midwestern University in Downers Grove, IL (dental school). She is a member of the ADA, CDS, IDS, and other local organizations. She continues her education by attending dental conferences and seminars.