Regular Dental Cleanings

Dental hygiene, also known as oral hygiene can be described as the daily or routine cleaning of the teeth, gums, and mouth. It is the process of keeping the mouth clean and can be referred to as the best method of preventing dental disorders or diseases, mouth odor, and the likes. Dental hygiene is a prerequisite to maintaining healthy teeth and mouth. Dental hygiene involves teeth cleaning which is a method of removing dental plaque.

Dental plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth after eating or drinking. Bacteria in the plaque produce acid which can destroy the enamel and lead to gum diseases. When plaque is left untreated it hardens and turns into tartar which is very hard to remove. Regular and proper teeth cleaning by brushing and flossing helps to prevent the build-up of plaque bacteria on the teeth.

While teeth cleaning can be done at home using a toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss, this cannot eliminate the plaque and tartar which often stick to the surface of the teeth completely. Since teeth cleaning at home is not adequate to keep the plaque or tartar away, especially with areas that are difficult to reach, hence a need for professional cleaning which is the essence of dental cleanings.

Importance Of Dental Cleanings

1. Prevention of Cavities

A cavity is a hole in the tooth that develops from tooth decay. It starts small and gets bigger when left untreated. It can also lead to an infection in the tooth called a tooth abscess. When you go for regular dental cleanings, plaque, tartar, and bacteria are eliminated. This reduces to the barest minimum your chances of getting cavities. Cleaning the teeth regularly is better, easier, and more pleasant than having to fill a hole that develops as a result of tooth decay.

2. Prevention of Tooth Loss

Tooth loss is a situation whereby a person loses one or more teeth as a result of the teeth coming loose and falling out. Tooth loss is a normal process for baby or milk teeth in which case such are replaced by adult teeth. Losing teeth in other circumstances or as an adult is however undesirable. Tooth loss has social, psychological, and emotional effects. It can affect one's self-image and self-esteem. Prominent among the causes of tooth loss are plaque accumulation and hardening, gum disease, and cavities. Regular dental cleanings will prevent the accumulation of plaque or tartar which will, in turn, prevent conditions such as cavities or gum diseases which can cause tooth loss.

3. Prevention of Bad Breath

Bad breath which is medically called halitosis can occur as a result of poor dental hygiene. Bad breath usually develops when there is an accumulation of bacteria in the mouth. Bad breath can lead to psychological trauma, embarrassment, and anxiety. The best way to combat bad breath is by practicing good oral hygiene which includes dental cleanings. Regular dental cleanings help in the control of bacteria in the mouth by ridding it of plaque and tartar .

4. Save Money

Visiting your dentist regularly can help you prevent serious dental conditions that will cost you a lot of money to rectify, thus saving you money in the long run. Most people find that they can prevent doing expensive dental procedures as a result of their regular dental cleanings. Also, a lot of health insurance plans have very little or no copayments for dental cleanings. Scheduling regular dental cleanings can help you save a lot of money.

5. Brighten Your Smile

Regular dental cleanings help keep your teeth white and shining. So even if you're not smiling because of all the money dental cleaning saves you, you will be smiling to show off your pearly white teeth.

6. Boost Your General Health

Your oral health has an impact on your well-being. Infections in your gums can lead to severe complications as they are located close to your brain cavity and sinuses. Oral infections and problems can be extremely painful, leaving you in a very bad state. Regular dental cleanings will help to keep infections at bay, help you maintain good health, and help you avoid serious health complications.

7. Discover Dental Problems Early

Your dentist will discover problems with your teeth and gums during a dental cleaning, helping you to tackle these problems before they result in complications.

The Dental Cleaning Procedure

Dental cleaning usually consists of two procedures, an oral examination and the cleaning itself. The examination involves the dentist checking for cavities and other problems with your teeth. In some cases, an x-ray has to be taken to complete the examination. The dentist also checks for plaque and tartar build-up on your teeth. While you can get rid of plaque on your own, only your dentist can remove the buildup of tartar on your teeth.

Your gums are also examined for infections using special tools. This is important as early detection of infection will prevent future complications. Next, you are checked for diseases of the tongue, throat, and neck. As these are parts closest to your mouth, infections can spread to them. At Lakeside Dental, our patients are checked properly to ensure that their gums and surrounding parts stay healthy. If any problems or infections are discovered, we help you schedule an appointment to take care of the problem.

The dental cleaning procedure will involve the removal of plaque and tartar with special equipment. The surface of the teeth is then cleaned and polished to remove any stains on the teeth. This will also make the surface of the teeth shine and sparkle. The teeth are then flossed to make sure that the teeth are completely cleaned.

Conclusion

Despite regular dental cleanings, you must keep your teeth clean by brushing daily and flossing regularly. You should try to brush your teeth at least twice every day using fluoride toothpaste. You can also make use of mouthwash to get rid of plaque-causing bacteria in the mouth.