Why Regular Dental Cleanings Are So Important for Your Oral Health
Regular dental cleanings are an essential part of maintaining good oral health. While brushing and flossing at home are crucial for removing plaque and preventing gum disease and tooth decay, professional dental cleanings can help ensure that your teeth and gums stay healthy and strong.
What is Dental Cleaning?
Dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a procedure that involves removing plaque and tartar from the teeth and gums. During a dental cleaning, a dental hygienist will use special tools to gently remove built-up plaque and tartar that cannot be removed through regular brushing and flossing. They will also polish the teeth to remove any surface stains and apply fluoride to help strengthen the enamel.
Why is Dental Cleaning Important?
Regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health for several reasons. Here are just a few:
Prevent Gum Disease: Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common condition that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. Regular dental cleanings help prevent gum disease by removing plaque and tartar buildup that can lead to gum inflammation and infection.
Detect Oral Health Problems: During a dental cleaning, the dentist or dental hygienist will also perform a thorough examination of your teeth and gums. This can help detect any oral health problems early on, such as cavities, gum disease, or oral cancer, so that they can be treated before they become more serious.
Remove Surface Stains: Dental cleanings can help remove surface stains from the teeth that cannot be removed through regular brushing and flossing. This can help improve the appearance of your teeth and give you a brighter, healthier-looking smile.
Save You Money: Regular dental cleanings can help prevent more serious oral health problems that may require costly and time-consuming treatments. Investing in regular dental cleanings can save money in the long run by avoiding more serious dental problems.
How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?
The American Dental Association recommends getting a dental cleaning every six months, or more frequently if you have specific oral health problems. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings based on your individual needs.
Conclusion
Regular dental cleanings are an essential part of maintaining good oral health. By removing plaque and tartar buildup and detecting oral health problems early on, dental cleanings can help prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health problems. So be sure to schedule regular dental cleanings with your dentist to keep your smile healthy and strong!