When it comes to maintaining optimal oral health, routine dental cleanings are an essential component of your overall dental care regimen. At URBN Dental, we understand the significance of these regular cleanings and are committed to ensuring that our patients in Houston, Texas, and its surrounding areas have access to the best dental care possible. In this article, we will explore the many reasons why dental cleanings are crucial for your oral health.
The Role of Dental Cleanings
Preventing Gum Disease
One of the primary benefits of dental cleanings is their role in preventing gum disease. Gum disease, also known as gingivitis in its early stage, can escalate into a more severe condition called periodontitis if left untreated. Routine cleanings help remove the plaque and tartar buildup that can lead to gum disease. Our highly trained dental hygienists use specialized tools to clean your teeth and gums thoroughly, ensuring that bacteria and debris are removed from both above and below the gum line.
Maintaining Healthy Teeth and Gums
Regular dental cleanings contribute significantly to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. During these cleanings, our dental professionals carefully inspect your mouth for any signs of dental issues such as cavities or infections. Identifying and addressing these issues early can prevent more extensive dental problems down the road. Additionally, dental cleanings involve polishing your teeth, leaving them with a smooth and clean surface that is less susceptible to plaque buildup.
Removing Plaque and Tartar
Plaque and tartar are two culprits that can lead to dental problems like cavities and gum disease. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth, and if not removed regularly, it can harden into tartar, which cannot be eliminated through regular brushing and flossing. Dental cleanings effectively remove both plaque and tartar below the gum line, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
A Thorough Cleaning Process
During a routine dental cleaning, your dental hygienist will use specialized instruments to scrape away plaque and tartar from the surface of your teeth and along the gumline. They may also employ an ultrasonic scaler to break down and remove stubborn tartar deposits. This thorough cleaning process ensures that your teeth and gums are free from harmful bacteria and buildup.
How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that most individuals should have professional teeth cleanings every six months. However, the frequency of your cleanings may vary depending on your specific oral health needs. Some individuals with a history of gum disease or other dental issues may require more frequent cleanings, as determined by their dentist.
Deep Dental Cleanings
In some cases, a routine dental cleaning may not be sufficient, and a deep dental cleaning may be recommended. Deep dental cleaning, also known as scaling and root planing, are performed when there is significant plaque and tartar buildup, often accompanied by gum disease. This procedure involves cleaning the teeth and roots below the gum line, a process that typically requires local anesthetics to ensure your comfort. You may need a root planing and deep cleaning to treat gum disease and prevent it from progressing into periodontitis.
The Importance of Regular Dental Exams
Professional teeth cleanings often go hand in hand with dental exams. While cleanings focus on removing plaque and tartar, dental exams provide a more comprehensive assessment of your oral health. During an exam, your dentist will inspect your teeth, gums, and mouth for any signs of dental issues or abnormalities.
What to Expect During a Routine Cleaning
Many patients may wonder what to expect during a routine dental cleaning. Here is a brief overview of the process:
- Medical History Review: Your dental hygienist will begin by reviewing your medical history to ensure they are aware of any relevant health conditions or medications.
- Initial Examination: A visual examination of your mouth and teeth will be conducted to identify any visible issues.
- Plaque and Tartar Removal: Using specialized instruments, your dental hygienist will carefully remove plaque and tartar from the surfaces of your teeth.
- Polishing: Your teeth will be polished to remove surface stains and leave them with a smooth finish.
- Flossing: Flossing between your teeth will help remove any remaining debris.
- Fluoride Treatment: In some cases, a fluoride treatment may be applied to strengthen your enamel and reduce the risk of cavities.
The Consequences of Neglecting Dental Cleanings
Neglecting routine dental cleanings can have serious consequences for your oral health. Without regular cleanings, plaque and tartar can accumulate, leading to a host of problems such as:
- Gum Disease: The buildup of plaque and tartar can cause inflammation and infection of the gums, leading to gum disease. Advanced gum disease can result in tooth loss.
- Tooth Decay: Plaque produces acids that can erode tooth enamel, leading to cavities.
- Bad Breath: Accumulated bacteria in your mouth can result in persistent bad breath.
- Tooth Sensitivity: Weakened enamel from untreated plaque can lead to increased tooth sensitivity.
The URBN Dental Difference
At URBN Dental, we prioritize your oral health and are dedicated to providing top-notch dental services. Our state-of-the-art dental offices in various Houston locations, including Uptown Houston, Midtown Houston, Montrose, and more, are staffed with experienced dentists and hygienists who are committed to delivering the best care possible. We understand that visiting the dentist can be a daunting experience for some, which is why we aim to create a comfortable and welcoming environment for all our patients.
Routine dental cleanings, also known as teeth cleaning, are a crucial component of maintaining excellent oral health. They help prevent gum disease, maintain healthy teeth and gums, and remove plaque and tartar buildup. Regular dental exams and cleanings are essential for catching dental issues early and preventing more extensive problems down the road. Neglecting routine dental cleanings can have serious consequences, including gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss. At URBN Dental, we are committed to providing the highest quality dental care to our patients in Houston and its surrounding areas. Schedule your routine dental cleaning with us today for a healthier smile tomorrow.
Source:
Natural history of periodontitis: Disease progression and tooth loss over 40 years. (2017).
