Even though regular dental cleanings are important for oral health, many people fail to prioritize them. A recent National Health Interview Survey revealed that more than 30% of American adults have not had a dental checkup in over one year, even though the American Dental Association recommends seeing a dentist at least once every six months. Those with preexisting conditions or higher risks for tooth decay and gum disease may need to see a dentist even more often. Routine dental appointments may seem unnecessary if you are not experiencing any dental issues, but these checkups can have a significant positive impact on your overall health.
Seeing a dentist is about much more than having a clean, fresh smile, although it is a nice perk. There are many reasons a professional cleaning can keep you healthy while also improving your quality of life.
No matter how healthy your diet is, your teeth are still exposed to sugars and acids from the foods you eat. Even nutritious produce and lean protein leave particles behind on your teeth that can lead to plaque buildup. Over time, if plaque is not removed quickly enough, it can harden and form tartar. Once tartar buildup develops, regular brushing and flossing cannot eradicate it. Fortunately, a dental professional can remove it during regular dental cleanings by using tools specifically designed for this job.
Regular dental cleanings can help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Most of this is done through the removal of plaque and tartar buildup, especially between teeth and along the gum line. This helps protect tooth enamel while keeping bacteria under control.
At these same appointments, dentists may offer other treatments that reduce the risks for these issues, such as topical fluoride treatments, dental sealants, and scaling or root planing. They may even suggest or prescribe a specific toothpaste, toothbrush, or mouth wash for those who may be more prone to dental disease.
Professional cleanings not only improve the health and strength of your teeth and gums but their appearance as well. When combined with good oral hygiene at home, regular cleanings can help patients enjoy a whiter smile, healthy pink gums, and even better breath. When people are more confident in their smiles, it can have a positive impact on their personal and professional lives.
When you schedule a checkup, your dentist will do much more than just clean your teeth. They will also perform examinations and screenings that help them check for signs of potential oral health issues. Seeing a dentist on a regular basis can help them detect many problems before symptoms arise, including:
The earlier these issues are treated, the better the chances of a positive outcome. Early detection can also give patients more treatment options to choose from that are less invasive or extensive.
Your dental health has a major impact on the various systems of your body. People who do not schedule regular dental cleanings are much more likely to develop gum disease. While this issue can cause problems with the teeth and gums, the side effects may not stop there.
Research has shown that people who have chronic gum disease are more likely to experience other health issues, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, arthritis, pregnancy complications, and stroke. Seeing a dentist on a routine basis significantly lowers your risk for gum disease, therefore lowering your risk for other major health concerns.
Regular dental cleanings are essential for people of all ages. Seeing your dentist on a routine basis helps keep your smile beautiful, but it also helps control bacteria and reduce tartar buildup. As a result, you are less likely to develop tooth decay and gum disease down the road. The examinations your dentist performs can also help them catch potential problems early, allowing them to develop a better treatment plan with a greater chance for a positive outcome.
Maintaining clean teeth and healthy gums can also reduce your risks of developing serious and even life-threatening issues in the future. For these reasons, it is important to see a dentist at least twice a year. If you do not currently have an appointment scheduled for your next cleaning, contact a dentist today.
Request an appointment here: https://www.gledhilldental.com or call Gledhill Dental at (509) 800-8410 for an appointment in our Kennewick office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Cleaning and Examinations in Kennewick, WA.
Going to the general dentistry office may not excite you, but you can reap the benefits. Putting off dental appointments can disrupt good oral health habits and lead to serious problems. The next time you come to see your dentist, you will have a dental cleaning. This is much more than a formality. General dentistry…
A dental check-up and cleaning is an essential part of taking care of your teeth. It can help prevent the onset of many oral diseases while also helping to improve your smile's appearance. After all, you only get one set of natural adult teeth, so it's up to you to properly take care of them.…
It is a known fact that routine dental cleaning is an important part of oral health. The American Dental Association recommends that people with an overall healthy mouth visit a dentist for a regular checkup and cleaning once every six months. Those with specific dental issues or certain underlying health conditions may need to schedule…
Wondering what happens when getting a dental cleaning? Preventive dentistry is important when it comes to caring for one's teeth in order to keep them healthy. One form of preventive dentistry includes routine dental cleanings.Many people who have never undergone a professional dental cleaning want to know what to expect. This way, they are more…
Dentures are the way to go if you are looking for an affordable way to replace missing teeth. They typically fall under one of two categories: partial and complete dentures. Partial dentures are recommended when a person has lost only some of the teeth in a dental arch. Full dentures are typically recommended for those…
Going to the general dentistry office may not excite you, but you can reap the benefits. Putting off dental appointments can disrupt good oral health habits and lead to serious problems. The next time you come to see your dentist, you will have a dental cleaning. This is much more than a formality. General dentistry…