Regular dental cleanings are important not only to keep your teeth and gums healthy but also to prevent costly dental problems. Regular cleanings help prevent plaque and tartar buildup, remove surface stains, and ensure that any developing problems are identified and treated promptly.
In this article, we will discuss why it is so important to have your teeth professionally cleaned by a dental hygienist and how it can benefit you in the long run.
What is Professional Teeth Cleaning?
Professional teeth cleaning is a process that involves the removal of stubborn plaque and tartar from the teeth, as well as polishing and smoothing the surface of your teeth. This procedure is performed by a trained dental hygienist, who uses special tools to clean and scrape away hard deposits of plaque and tartar that can be difficult to remove with just brushing and flossing alone.
Benefits of Dental Cleaning
Here are some of the benefits of having your teeth professionally cleaned on a regular basis:
#1. Reduced risk of tooth decay and other dental problems
Regular cleanings help prevent the buildup of plaque, which is an invisible film of bacteria that forms on the surfaces of the teeth and leads to tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss.
#2. Early detection of dental problems
Regular professional cleanings allow the hygienist to detect any small dental issues early on before they become major problems.
#3. Improved oral hygiene
Professional cleanings can help remove surface stains caused by smoking, coffee, tea, or other dark-colored foods and drinks. Additionally, regular cleanings can help prevent bad breath by removing bacteria and debris that can accumulate between teeth and the gum line.
Signs You Need a Professional Teeth Cleaning
If you are due for a routine teeth cleaning, there are some signs you may experience that will indicate it is time to make an appointment with your dentist. Some of the most common signs include:
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- Bad breath: If you have persistent bad breath, even after brushing and flossing your teeth, it could be a sign that you need a professional teeth cleaning. Your hygienist can remove the bacteria and debris that could be causing your bad breath.
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- Tooth sensitivity: If you start to experience tooth sensitivity when consuming cold or hot foods and drinks, it can be an indication that you may have plaque buildup on your teeth that needs to be removed.
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- Stained teeth: If you notice that your teeth have become stained from smoking, coffee, or tea, a professional cleaning can help remove some surface stains.
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- Gum disease: If your gums are red, swollen, and bleed easily when you brush and floss, it could be an indication of gum disease. Professional teeth cleanings can help remove plaque and tartar buildup that could be causing gum disease.
What Should You Expect During the Procedure?
When you visit your dentist for a professional teeth cleaning, you can expect to have an in-depth assessment of your oral health as well as a detailed cleaning. Your hygienist will begin by asking questions about your dental history and examining your mouth for any signs of cavities, damage, or disease. They will then use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and will use a polishing tool to smooth the surfaces of your teeth. Finally, they may apply a fluoride treatment to protect the enamel of your teeth.
Is Teeth Cleaning Necessary Every 6 Months?
Most dental professionals recommend that people have their teeth cleaned at least twice a year, although some people may need to come in more often if they have specific dental issues that require more frequent visits. Additionally, certain high-risk groups like smokers or those with gum disease may need to come in every three or four months to maintain optimal oral health.
What Will Happen if You Skip Your Routine Cleaning?
Here are some of the potential risks associated with neglecting regular professional teeth cleanings:
#1. Tooth decay and gum disease
Skipping routine cleanings can increase the risk for tooth decay and gum disease. Plaque buildup on teeth can cause cavities, which is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults. In addition, plaque buildup can also lead to gum disease, an infection that causes inflammation and bleeding of the gums. Without regular professional cleaning, these issues can worsen over time and cause serious oral health problems.
#2. Lost teeth
When plaque and tartar buildup accumulates, it can create an environment in the mouth that is conducive to bacteria growth. This bacteria can cause tooth decay and gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss if not treated properly. Regular cleanings help prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar that could lead to tooth loss.
#3. Higher risk of infection
Without regular cleanings, bacteria can linger in the mouth and increase the risk of infection. This is especially true for people with weakened immune systems or those who use certain medications.
#4. Unhealthy appearance
Plaque accumulation on teeth can lead to surface staining that is difficult to remove with regular brushing and flossing. Regular cleanings remove the buildup of plaque and bacteria from the enamel of your teeth, helping to prevent or reverse any discoloration.
At-Home Care Tips for Maintaining Healthy Teeth
Although professional teeth cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health, there are some easy at-home care tips you can follow to ensure your teeth stay healthy and white between visits. Here are some of the most important tips:
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- Brush twice a day: Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste is one of the best ways to remove plaque and keep your teeth healthy.
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- Floss daily: Flossing helps to remove food particles and plaque between the teeth in areas that brushing can’t reach.
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- Eat a balanced diet: Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables can help keep your teeth strong and healthy.
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- Avoid smoking: Smoking can lead to stained teeth and is also linked with an increased risk of gum disease and other dental health issues such as oral cancer.
Schedule Your Dental Visit Today!
Professional teeth cleanings are an important part of a good dental hygiene routine. They help remove plaque and tartar that can lead to tooth decay, gum disease, and other dental problems. They help keep your teeth looking white and healthy and can even help reduce bad breath.
At Pennsylvania Center for Dental Excellence we offer professional teeth cleanings and other preventive dentistry services to help keep your smile healthy. Schedule an appointment today!