Poor dental habits can lead to a decline in oral health. Without proper brushing and flossing, patients may require root canals, develop cavities, or experience heavy plaque buildup. However, even those who follow a rigorous teeth-cleaning routine need professional cleanings from time to time. Depending on the severity of oral health decline, some patients may need to see a dentist more frequently than others.
For many, professional teeth cleanings should take place every six months. To fully restore your teeth and remove unwanted plaque, professional teeth cleanings are required. To receive the most care, consider seeing a dentist twice a year, or every six months, to improve your oral health and receive regular professional care for your teeth.
How Professional Teeth Cleaning Helps
When a person receives professional teeth cleaning, it helps keep teeth healthy. In fact, professional teeth cleaning is important in numerous ways. For instance, teeth cleaning can prevent further buildup of plaque and bacteria. When bacteria spread, it can lead to tooth decay.
A dentist offers modern dental technology for cleanings compared to the toothbrush and toothpaste one might find at home. Deep cleaning of the teeth can help minimize the risk of developing gum disease or severe tooth decay that may require treatment or surgery.
The Professional Teeth Cleaning Process
Once a patient arrives for a dental checkup, the teeth and gums will be examined to determine whether any decay or cavities have developed. If so, certain treatment options may be necessary to prevent cavities.
According to the National Library of Medicine, prevention and early detection of oral disease are principal functions of teeth cleaning. When an individual receives a professional teeth cleaning at a dentist’s office, the following will take place:
- Scaling – During scaling, any buildup of tartar or plaque is removed. Once plaque hardens into tartar, it can only be removed through professional scaling. The process also involves scraping the teeth to remove hardened plaque buildup.
- Flossing and rinsing – Once scaling is complete, flossing and rinsing follow. A professional will floss your teeth, ensuring any unwanted residue is removed. After flossing, you will be asked to rinse your mouth to remove any debris.
- Gritty toothpaste cleaning – Professionals use a specific toothbrush and toothpaste to clean teeth. Despite the toothpaste’s grittiness, it is available in several flavors for you to choose from. The professional will then gently clean your teeth.
- Fluoride treatment – A fluoride treatment can protect teeth for months. Once the fluoride treatment has fully settled, the patient is free to eat and drink as they please.
To some, visiting the dentist can be scary. Thankfully, there are plenty of professionals who are well-trained and equipped to tackle plaque buildup, preventing bacterial growth.
Consequences of Not Receiving Routine Dental Cleanings
Those who do not receive professional dental cleanings may develop several problems. Consequences associated with not receiving routine, professional teeth cleaning include:
- Gingivitis
- Tooth loss
- Inflammation
- Periodontitis
- Hypersensitivity to cold or hot water
- Exposed tooth root
- Mineral loss from the tooth surface
- Increased cavity development
- Increased bacterial growth
- Lesion growths
- Bleeding gums
Prolonged exposure to bacteria can lead to widespread bacteria growth, damaging gums and teeth. To prevent this, be sure to see a dentist every six months.
Find Dental Treatment
At Encino Family Dental, we have a long history of treating patients with a variety of dental issues. Whether you require a root canal or are searching for professional teeth cleaning, we have plenty of options for you to consider.
If it has been a while since you last saw a dentist, reach out to us today so we can connect you with one of our many professionals. Contact us to learn more about our treatment options.