Teeth cleanings (or dental cleanings) play an underestimated, but pivotal role in maintaining a healthy smile. If you’ve ever wondered why those routine dental cleanings are so crucial, you’ve come to the right place!
In this article, we’ll explore the undeniable benefits of dental cleanings and why they should be an integral part of your oral health regimen.
What is Dental Cleaning?
A teeth cleaning is a routine dental treatment that everyone should get regularly to maintain excellent dental health, and removes bacteria, plaque, and tartar buildup in the mouth.
This treatment is done to improve and maintain dental hygiene, subsequently preventing a variety of oral health issues.
However, teeth cleanings are essential when it comes to maintaining good overall physical health, not just oral health.
The Teeth Cleaning Process
During a teeth cleaning, your dental hygienist will use a special tool to gently scrape off the plaque and tartar that have formed above and below the gum line around your teeth.
Your dental hygienist will also insert a small probe under the gum line to measure the depth of any pockets that may have developed between your teeth and your gums, which is an indicator of gum disease.
In cases of significant tartar build‐up, your dental hygienist may perform deep cleaning, including scaling or root planing to remove the tartar that has accumulated more deeply below the gums.
Once your teeth cleaning is complete, your dental hygienist will review the way you’re brushing and flossing at home, offering tips on how to improve your technique to keep your teeth and gums healthy and clean.
Benefits of Dental Cleanings
1. Plaque and Tartar Removal
One of the primary reasons why dental cleanings are crucial is their effectiveness in removing plaque and tartar buildup.
Even with diligent brushing and flossing at home, some areas of your mouth can be challenging to reach.
Over time, plaque can harden into tartar, which cannot be removed with regular brushing alone. Dental cleanings performed by a professional hygienist are essential to scrape away these stubborn deposits, preventing them from causing more significant dental issues.
2. Preventing Gum Disease
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is a common and often preventable dental problem. Left untreated, gum disease can cause serious inflammation, receding gums, and eventual tooth loss as the bones and gum tissue deteriorate.
Dental cleanings play a pivotal role in preventing gum disease by keeping your gums healthy and free from inflammation.
Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, can often be reversed with regular dental cleanings and good oral hygiene practices. By attending your dental cleanings as recommended, you reduce your risk of progressing to more severe gum disease stages that can lead to tooth loss.
3. Early Detection of Oral Health Issues
Your dentist and hygienist are trained to detect oral health issues at their earliest stages. During a dental cleaning, they can spot warning signs of cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and other dental conditions that might go unnoticed otherwise.
Early detection can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes and can often save you from more extensive and expensive dental procedures down the line.
4. Fresher Breath
Persistent bad breath can be a significant source of embarrassment and discomfort. Dental cleanings help keep your breath fresh by removing the bacteria and food particles that contribute to unpleasant odors.
Maintaining good oral hygiene through regular cleanings can boost your confidence and ensure you’re always ready to flash a bright, healthy smile.
5. Brighter Smile
Professional dental cleanings are an excellent way to achieve and maintain a bright, white smile.
The removal of stains and discoloration caused by coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco can rejuvenate your smile, making it look more youthful and attractive.
6. Overall Health Connection
Oral health is closely connected to your overall well-being. Numerous studies have linked gum disease to various systemic health issues, such as heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory problems.
By investing in regular dental cleanings, you’re not only preserving your oral health but also contributing to your overall health and longevity.
7. A chance to check for a bad bite or TMJ
Dental cleaning appointments are a good time to check-in and make sure that every aspect of your oral health is healthy and functional.
For example, if you have any problems with your jaw, your dentist will be sure to notice anomalies early on to help you solve the problem more effectively.
How Often You Should Get a Dental Cleaning?
A full professional dental hygiene appointment is recommended about 2 times per year.
If you come into the dentist at other times for other needs, a brief cleaning may be performed before the procedure or examination. Otherwise, an appointment every six months will suffice to ensure sustained oral health.
Modern Day Dental | Dentist St. Johns, FL
In conclusion, dental cleanings are not just an optional dental service; they are a fundamental component of your oral health regimen.
By attending these appointments as recommended by your dentist, you can enjoy a cleaner, healthier smile, prevent gum disease, and even improve your overall health. Don’t underestimate the significance of dental cleanings – they are a small investment that can yield significant returns in terms of your oral and overall well-being.
At Modern Day Dental, we are committed to helping you achieve and maintain optimal oral health. Schedule your next dental cleaning with us, and let’s work together to ensure your smile stays healthy and beautiful for years to come!