Having your teeth professionally cleaned is an essential part of maintaining good oral health. Regular dental cleanings help prevent tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease by removing plaque and tartar buildup that brushing and flossing can’t reach. Professional cleanings also help detect any potential problems early on before they become serious.
Professional Tooth Cleaning
When it comes to keeping your teeth clean, brushing and flossing are essential. However, these methods alone may not be enough to remove all plaque and tartar build-ups that accumulate over time. Plaque is a sticky substance made up of bacteria that forms on the surfaces of teeth, while tartar is hardened plaque that has calcified on tooth enamel. Brushing and flossing can help remove some plaque and tartar buildup, but only professional cleaning by a dentist or hygienist can completely remove them.
Professional teeth cleaning involves removing plaque and tartar buildup from the surface of your teeth, which left untreated can lead to a variety of dental issues. During the teeth cleaning process, a dental hygienist will use special tools to gently remove the plaque and tartar buildup. They will also floss between your teeth and use mouthwash to help flush out any remaining debris.
Benefits of Professional Teeth Cleaning
Having your teeth professionally cleaned provides many benefits to your dental health. By removing plaque from your teeth, professional cleanings can help prevent tooth decay and periodontal disease and reduce the risk of cavities and bad breath. Regular cleanings also allow your dentist or hygienist to detect any potential problems early so they can be treated quickly.
#1. Remove Plaque and Tartar
Plaque is a sticky substance made up of bacteria that forms on the surfaces of teeth, while tartar is hardened plaque that has calcified on tooth enamel. Professional teeth cleaning involves using special tools to gently remove the plaque and tartar buildup from the surface of your teeth. This process helps to prevent tooth decay and dental diseases.
#2. Fresher Breath
Having your teeth professionally cleaned can also help improve your breath. Plaque and tartar can cause bacteria to accumulate, leading to bad breath. Professional dental cleanings help remove this bacteria and reduce bad breath, leaving you with a fresher-smelling mouth.
#3. Keep Your Gums Healthy
Plaque and tartar can cause inflammation and irritation in the gums, leading to gum disease. During a professional dental cleaning, plaque and tartar buildup will be removed from the surface of your teeth and along the gum line, helping to reduce inflammation and promote healthier gums.
#4. Prevent Cavities
An unclean mouth is a breeding ground for bacteria, which can cause decay in the enamel, leading to cavities. Regular dental cleanings help remove this buildup and reduce the risk of oral cavities.
#5. Reduced Risk of Cardiovascular Disease
Studies have shown a link between gum disease and an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. By having your teeth professionally cleaned, you can reduce the bacteria in your mouth that can lead to gum disease, helping to lower your risk for cardiovascular disease.
#6. Reduced Risk of Tooth Loss
When you allow plaque to build up on the surface of your teeth, it can lead to gum disease, which can cause your gums to recede and loosen the connection between your teeth and jawbone. This can result in weakened teeth and an increased risk of tooth loss. Regular teeth cleanings help to remove plaque and tartar buildup, reducing the risk of tooth loss.
#7. Early Detection of Oral Cancer
Routine cleanings can help detect oral cancer in its early stages when it is most treatable. During routine teeth cleaning, your dentist or hygienist will look for signs of oral cancer, such as lumps or lesions on the tongue, lips, or gums. If they find any suspicious areas, they may recommend further testing to diagnose and treat it.
How Often Should You Get Your Teeth Professionally Cleaned?
You should get your teeth professionally cleaned every six months to maintain optimal dental health. This helps to ensure that any plaque and tartar are removed, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Regular professional cleanings also allow your dentist or hygienist to detect any potential problems early so they can be treated quickly. If you have a higher risk for cavities, gum disease, or other oral health issues, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings.
What To Expect During a Routine Teeth Cleaning
A routine teeth cleaning typically involves a few steps, including examining your mouth and teeth. During the dental exam, your dentist or hygienist will look for any signs of decay or gum disease and examine any existing fillings or other dental work. They may also take dental x-rays to get a better view of any issues that cannot be seen with the naked eye.
Once the exam is complete, your dentist or hygienist will begin the cleaning process by using a scraper to remove any plaque and tartar buildup on the surface of your teeth. They may also use a toothbrush or other special tools to help remove additional plaque and debris between your teeth and the gum line. Finally, they will polish your teeth to reduce staining or discoloration. They may also apply a fluoride treatment at the end of the cleaning to help protect your teeth from decay.
Dental Care Tips for Maintaining Healthy Teeth
Here are a few tips to help you keep your smile looking great:
- Practice a good oral hygiene routine. You should brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss once daily to help keep your teeth healthy and clean.
- Schedule regular dental visits. Visit your dentist at least twice a year for routine cleanings and checkups. Your dentist can detect problems early and provide treatment to prevent them from worsening.
- Limit sugary foods and drinks. Eating too many sugary snacks and drinking sodas can lead to tooth decay, so it’s best to limit your intake of these items.
By following these tips and getting regular professional teeth cleanings, you can maintain a healthy smile for years to come.
Schedule a Teeth Cleaning Appointment Today!
Preventative care is the best way to maintain optimal dental health, and having your teeth professionally cleaned every six months is an important part of that. If you are due for a cleaning or would like to learn more about our services, contact us today to schedule an appointment!