The Importance of Routine Dental Cleaning
Getting your teeth professionally cleaned by a dentist is very important. A routine dental cleaning every six months may not be your favorite thing to schedule. But, these cleanings can catch problematic dental issues early on. This can save you money and pain in the long run.
Why Routine Dental Cleaning is Important
Even if you are brushing your teeth and flossing daily, it is still essential to have routine dental cleanings. These standard at-home routines are an excellent way to keep your teeth healthy and prevent possible issues, but there is only so much you can adequately clean without help from a dentist. Some areas in the mouth can get plaque and tartar build-up even with regular brushing and care.
Plaque is the substance left on teeth after eating and drinking. The bacteria in plaque produce acids that can destroy tooth enamel, causing issues such as cavities and the beginning stages of gum disease. Plaque can also form under the gums on the roots of teeth, which breaks down the bone that supports the teeth. When plaque is not brushed away, it hardens into tartar, which can build up on the teeth and is too hard to remove with the soft bristles of a toothbrush. Going for routine dental cleanings helps remove the tartar that has already formed and diminishes the plaque before it becomes an issue. If untreated, the tartar will continue to build and cause severe problems that need to be treated with more invasive techniques.
Having routine dental cleanings is a cost-effective option than alternative procedures. Dentists can also look for early signs of gum disease and cavities in these regular cleanings. Knowing that you have these issues can help prevent any further damage and discomfort. In most cases, these issues will not be treated until later, so there is no need to worry about an unexpected cavity being filled.
Why Tartar and Plaque Buildup is Concerning
We’ve discussed what happens when tartar and plaque build-up on teeth, but what does that damage look like? Hearing the names of the different diseases and issues doesn’t always paint a complete picture of the actual problems.
In regards to gum disease, there are a few different stages. Gingivitis is the early stage of gum disease and causes the gums to become swollen and red with the possibility of bleeding. As the gum disease progresses and becomes more severe without treatment, it becomes periodontitis. At this stage, the gums begin to pull away, and the bone holding the teeth in place begins to wear out, creating the possibility of teeth falling out.
Cavities are one of the world’s most common dental issues. Even with its frequency in people, the effects it can have on the mouth if not appropriately treated isn’t always commonly known. The most common symptom is severe toothache which generally brings a patient in the get treatment for the pain. In more severe cases where the cavity continues not to receive treatment, it can grow larger and cause infection and possible tooth loss. If the damage is severe enough, procedures like root canals and crowns might be necessary to keep the integrity of other teeth and the jaw.
What to Expect in a Routine Dental Cleaning
There is no need to be concerned when going for a checkup. Lee Simon Dentistry is a judgment-free zone and only wants the best for our patients, no matter the state of their teeth. Our routine cleanings are basic; you can read in more detail what to expect at your appointment, so there are no surprises. Keep your smile healthy!