Good dental hygiene should be part of your regular health routine, including scheduling regular tooth cleanings. Many people think they’d rather skip this step in order to save time or money, but the truth is that doing so can lead to bigger problems down the line!
In this blog post, we’re going to look at some of the surprising benefits you might not know about when it comes to getting a professional teeth cleaning. Not only will it help maintain good oral health overall, but it may also positively affect other aspects of your life from mood regulation to overall bodily functions. So don’t hesitate any longer – if you want a healthy smile, then read on!
Benefits of Regular Cleanings
Regular dental cleanings offer a variety of benefits, including:
- Preventing cavities: Even with regular brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth over time. Professional cleanings remove this buildup, preventing cavities from forming.
- Freshening breath: Bad breath can be caused by bacteria in your mouth. Regular cleanings remove these bacteria, leaving your breath fresh and clean.
- Detecting oral cancer: During a cleaning, your dentist will examine your mouth for signs of oral cancer. Early detection can be life-saving.
How Cleanings Improve Oral Health
Visiting the dentist for regular cleanings is crucial in maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Cleanings improve oral health in several ways:
- Removing plaque and tartar: Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to gum disease, cavities, and tooth loss. Regular cleanings remove this buildup, preventing these issues from occurring.
- Polishing teeth: Cleanings also involve polishing your teeth, which removes surface stains and makes your teeth look brighter.
- Checking for gum disease: Your dentist will also check for signs of gum disease during a cleaning. Catching gum disease early can prevent it from progressing and causing tooth loss.
Who Should Receive Cleanings
Everyone should receive regular dental cleanings, regardless of age or oral health. Even if you have no dental issues, cleanings can help prevent them from occurring.
Types of Cleanings
There are two types of dental cleanings: regular cleanings and deep cleanings.
Regular cleanings are recommended for those with good oral health, while deep cleanings are recommended for those with gum disease or other dental issues.
Cleaning Frequency
Most people should receive a dental cleaning every six months. However, some people may need more frequent cleanings, such as those with gum disease or a history of cavities.
Risks of Not Receiving Cleanings
Skipping out on dental cleanings can have serious consequences, including:
- Gum disease: Without regular cleanings, plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth, leading to gum disease.
- Cavities: Plaque buildup can also lead to the development of cavities, which can cause pain and require costly dental work to fix.
- Tooth loss: If gum disease is left untreated, it can lead to tooth loss.
- Oral cancer: Regular cleanings include an oral cancer screening, which can detect the disease early and increase the chances of successful treatment.
Cost of Cleanings
The cost of dental cleanings varies depending on where you live and the type of cleaning you need. However, the cost of a cleaning is much less than the cost of treating dental issues that can arise from skipping cleanings.
Dental Cleaning Procedure
During a dental cleaning, a dental hygienist will use special tools to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth. They will also polish your teeth to remove surface stains and make your teeth look brighter.
Pain Management During Cleanings
Some people may experience discomfort during a dental cleaning. However, there are several pain management options available, including local anesthesia and nitrous oxide (laughing gas).
At-Home Care After Cleanings
After a cleaning, it’s important to continue practicing good oral hygiene at home. This includes brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. Your dentist may also recommend a fluoride treatment to strengthen your teeth.
It’s clear that scheduling regular dental cleanings are an important part of taking care of your oral health. Not only do they help you feel more confident with a bright, white smile – they also help to protect you against plaque buildup, cavities, and even oral cancer.
So if it’s been awhile since your last visit to the dentist, don’t put it off any longer – take action today to keep your teeth and gums healthy! And remember that a little preventative maintenance now can save you time and money in the long run. Contact our Wandsworth dentist for an appointment with our dental hygienist!
