When was the last time you had your teeth cleaned? Many people assume that by brushing and flossing their teeth, they don’t need to undergo routine cleanings. However, there are a number of benefits to a dental cleaning, from fresher breath to a reduced risk of serious oral health concerns.
Benefits of Dental Cleanings
- Helps Prevent Cavities: A cleaning is the only way to completely remove plaque buildup from the surface of the teeth. Without removal, plaque buildup (a bacterial byproduct) can weaken tooth enamel, causing enamel erosion and increasing oral acidity. Soon, you can develop a higher risk of cavities.
- Gum Disease Prevention: Plaque buildup can also inflame the gums, leading to gingivitis. Without treatment, gingivitis can eventually allow gum disease to form. However, a simple cleaning twice a year can help protect your smile from gum disease. If you do encounter the symptoms of inflammation, such as red gums, sore gums, or gums that bled when you brush/floss, contact your dentist right away.
- Addresses Bad Breath: Plaque occurs when bacteria break down food particles, a process that coats the teeth in a sticky film and leads to bad breath. By cleaning your teeth, you keep your breath fresh. To encourage good breath, we also suggest brushing and flossing your teeth daily.
- Helps Brighten Teeth: The buildup can cause stains to become more apparent. However, by removing it your teeth can appear brighter.
- Allows Doctor to Examine Smile: During the same visit, the doctor will also perform a dental checkup, examining your smile for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, oral cancer, TMJ disorder, bruxism, and more. By identifying problems in the earliest stages, you can potentially avoid complications. To maintain a healthy and beautiful smile, be sure to visit our office once every six months for a checkup and to have your teeth cleaned.
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