Why You Need a Regular Teeth Cleaning

You're always told you need to go to the dentist twice a year for a regular cleaning. Even if you don't think you have a dental problem, you need to go to the dentist every six months for a checkup. Here are some reasons why this is necessary.

Prevent gum disease

The scraping during a teeth cleaning may be unpleasant, but it has a purpose: getting rid of plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth. This type of buildup can lead to gum disease, tooth loss and tooth decay. Plaque, the whitish film that you can sometimes feel on your teeth, is an acidic substance that eats away tooth enamel. With regular teeth cleanings, frequent brushing and consistent flossing, you can keep plaque from building up. This will give you stronger, cleaner teeth for years to come.

Freshen your breath

Is your breath bad even after brushing your teeth? This is because your regular toothbrush cannot reach into all the places where bacteria live. Going to the dentist regularly ensures that all the corners of your mouth are thoroughly cleaned, giving you healthy, fresh breath.

Improve your smile

If you want to brighten your smile, regular teeth cleanings can help. A cleaning can remove stains from your teeth caused by alcohol, caffeine and smoking. Regular visits will not give you a perfect, white smile, but it will help. You can also learn about teeth whitening procedures when you visit the dentist.

Oral health maintenance

A benefit of regular cleanings is that the dentist will be able to see the progression of your dental health. They also have a record of your teeth, so they will immediately know if you are at risk of gum disease or tooth loss. This is also an easy way to be examined for several serious diseases, like oral cancer. Certain diseases manifest on the mouth as mouth sores or lesions, so a dentist can give you immediate advice on how to address the disease or infection.

Save money

The amount you spend on regular checkups is nothing compared to expensive treatments you'll need if you develop serious dental problems like gum disease. The price of dentures and tooth implants can also be high, but if you don't take care of your teeth these treatments are in your future.