Tooth Cleaning
Why do I need my teeth professionally cleaned?
Professional teeth cleaning, also known as dental prophylaxis or dental cleaning, is an essential aspect of maintaining good oral health. Here are several reasons why you need to have your teeth professionally cleaned:
- Plaque and Tartar Removal: Even with regular brushing and flossing, it can be challenging to remove all the plaque and tartar (hardened plaque) buildup on your teeth. Over time, plaque can harden into tartar, which cannot be removed by regular home care methods. Dental professionals have the tools and expertise to effectively remove these deposits, preventing them from causing tooth decay and gum disease.
- Preventing Gum Disease: Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a common oral health issue that can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Professional cleanings help remove plaque and tartar from below the gumline, reducing the risk of gum inflammation (gingivitis) and the more severe form of gum disease (periodontitis).
- Maintaining Fresh Breath: Poor oral hygiene can lead to bad breath (halitosis). Professional cleanings help remove bacteria and food particles that contribute to foul odors in your mouth, leaving you with fresher breath.
- Early Detection of Dental Issues: Regular dental check-ups and cleanings allow your dentist to identify potential dental problems early on. This includes cavities, cracked teeth, oral cancer, and other issues. Early detection can often lead to less invasive and less expensive treatments.
- Preventing Tooth Loss: Gum disease and untreated dental issues can ultimately lead to tooth loss. Regular professional cleanings and check-ups can help prevent this outcome by addressing problems before they become severe.
- Improving Overall Health: There is growing evidence of a connection between oral health and overall health. Poor oral health has been linked to various systemic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and respiratory infections. By maintaining good oral hygiene through professional cleanings, you may reduce your risk of developing these health issues.
- Enhancing Aesthetics: Professional cleanings can also help improve the appearance of your teeth by removing surface stains and discolorations. This can contribute to a brighter and more attractive smile.
- Personalized Oral Care: Your dental hygienist can provide you with personalized advice on oral care techniques and products tailored to your specific needs and concerns.
In summary, professional teeth cleaning is essential for maintaining good oral health, preventing dental problems, and potentially benefiting your overall health. It complements your daily oral hygiene routine and ensures that your teeth and gums receive the necessary care to stay healthy and functional. It is recommended that most individuals have professional dental cleanings every six months, but the frequency may vary depending on your specific oral health needs, as advised by your dentist or dental hygienist.
What do you know about the benefits?
- In different ways professional teeth cleaning is performed in different dental offices. Consequently, patients must ensure that all essential steps are taken during the procedure:
- Evaluation of the teeth and gums
- Elimination of soft and hard deposits
- Polishing the teeth and applying fluoride varnish or gel.
- Home oral hygiene recommendations. It is possible to see how much plaque was present before and after cleaning using coloring tablets or plaque rinses.
According to Virginia Dental Care, professional teeth cleaning is a practical and efficient measure. Normal oral hygiene at home is insufficient to prevent tooth decay and periodontitis and maintain healthy teeth and gums. With professional tooth cleaning, stubborn and bacterial deposits can be removed from tooth surfaces that are difficult to access.
little reliable and high-quality research on the benefits of professional teeth cleaning.
