What Are The Advantages of Regular Teeth Cleaning?

Teeth cleaning is one of the cornerstones of excellent oral health. Receiving regular teeth cleanings can reduce your risk of developing problems with your oral and overall health.

Benefits of Regular Teeth Cleaning

Prevent Tooth Decay

One of the top benefits of teeth cleaning is preventing cavities. Cavities happen when acids in plaque and food eat into the tooth enamel, allowing bacteria to enter and cause damage. Teeth cleanings and regular exams catch cavities at their earliest stages, making them much more straightforward to treat and prevent future problems like root canals.

Remove Surface Stains

When a hygienist cleans your teeth, they use a gritty but gentle polish that removes surface stains, giving you a brighter smile.

Prevent Bad Breath

Food particles and bacteria trapped in the mouth cause bad breath. Teeth cleaning removes these contaminants and gives you fresh breath.

Prevent Gum Disease

Gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) occurs when bacterial waste released by plaque and tartar damages the gums and underlying bone, leading to gum recession, pain, and eventual tooth loss. Only a professional can remove tartar buildup and break the cycle of gum disease.

Reduce the Risk of Tooth Loss

Teeth damaged by decay and gum disease are more likely to need extraction. When cavities and gum disease are properly controlled, patients can keep their natural teeth longer.

Support Your Overall Health

Researchers found that poor oral health leads to cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, and preterm birth, among other significant health challenges. The connection is inflammation caused by oral bacteria.

Lower Lifetime Dental Costs

A dental cleaning is far less costly than a filling, crown, or root canal. Many patients have full dental insurance coverage for two cleanings a year. Maximize your benefits by maintaining excellent oral health and receiving regular teeth cleanings.

Teeth Cleaning: Step-by-Step

• Digital X-rays: Most dentists take digital X-rays annually to check for hidden tooth decay and other issues.
• Scaling: The hygienist uses a tool called a scaler to scrape away every trace of plaque and tartar.
• Polishing: Using a gritty polish and spinning brush, the hygienist removes stains and any remaining debris.
• Rinsing: The hygienist thoroughly rinses the mouth.
• Flossing: An expert flossing concludes a dental cleaning.
• Dental Examination: After your cleaning, your dentist will visit and perform an oral examination. They will look for trouble signs and potential areas of concern for oral cancer.

Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Cleaning

How often should I have my teeth cleaned?

Most dentists recommend cleanings every six months for patients over age one. However, depending on your oral health and any risk factors, you may need more or less frequent cleanings. Your dentist will set an individual schedule.

How does teeth cleaning affect my overall health?

Clearing tooth decay and dangerous oral infections like gum disease can reduce your risk of health problems. With fewer bacteria, you will have lower rates of inflammation in your body.

Call Fallin Family Dentistry

If you need a dental cleaning, please call our Zachary, LA office at 225-654-2212. We would be glad to schedule an appointment for y7u\7you or your child.