When was the last time you had a dental checkup? It is crucial that you have regular dental checkups at least every six months to ensure healthy gums and teeth. Usually, your family dentist will conduct different exams and treatments during these checkups.
A common procedure provided during these checkups is professional dental cleaning. Your dentist will examine your teeth and clean the build-up of plaque and tartar. They would also check for cavities and other dental problems that may need further treatment.
What Makes Professional Dental Cleaning Different?
While you may consistently brush and floss at home, you still need regular professional dental cleaning at least twice a year to maintain oral health and hygiene. Your dentist will use dental tools and equipment to remove plaque and tartar that cannot be removed by simple brushing and flossing.
If you do not maintain proper oral hygiene, your dentist may need to work on your teeth and gums. Your dentist may need to use a mild anesthetic agent to ensure that you get a pleasant experience as you are getting your teeth and gums cleaned.
The Benefits of Professional Dental Cleaning
Other than keeping your teeth clean, professional dental cleaning can provide several oral health benefits, including:
- Prevention of tooth loss. Gum diseases can develop from excessive build-up of plaque and tartar. If left untreated, this can eventually result in tooth loss.
- Removal of stains. If you are thinking of availing yourself of teeth whitening services for stains on your teeth, getting regular dental cleaning might suit you better.
- Prevention of dental cavities. Cavities develop from plaque and harmful bacteria in the mouth. Getting your teeth cleaned regularly can keep these cavities at bay.
- Enhanced oral health. A clean and healthy mouth is less at risk of getting life-threatening heart disorders.
How Do You Make Your Dental Cleaning Last Longer?
There’s a feeling of freshness that comes after every dental cleaning. Other than fresher breath, your teeth would and gums would feel cleaner too. Here are some tips to let this fresh feeling last longer:
1. Watch your diet.
Reduce your sugar consumption as sugars promote bacterial growth and acidity in the mouth, making it an ideal environment for developing plaque. You can add certain foods that help clean the teeth, such as crunchy fruits and vegetables, dairy, and calcium-rich foods.
2. Practice proper oral hygiene.
Just because your teeth are clean does not mean you should cut back on your need for brushing and flossing daily. Make sure to observe proper brushing and flossing.
3. Treat physical and dental problems.
Certain medical conditions such as chronic heartburn and eating disorders can cause excessive stomach acid that remains in the mouth. These can contribute to bad breath and dry mouth.
Leaving damaged fillings or dental devices unrepaired can also promote the development of plaque. Treating these dental and physical problems first can help keep the mouth fresh and clean for longer.
4. Chew sugarless gum.
Chewing gum can stimulate ten times the normal rate of saliva flow. This helps neutralize and remove the acid that stays in the mouth when food is broken down by bacteria. Some of these gum contains a substance called xylitol, which inhibits bacterial growth and tooth decay.
Conclusion
Getting your teeth cleaned by a professional regularly is important to maintain your oral health and hygiene. Other than keeping the teeth and mouth clean, it also prevents certain oral problems such as tooth loss, gum disease, and cavities. By observing proper oral hygiene, you can make the fresh feeling after cleaning last longer too!
Are you looking for an affordable dentist in Mansfield for professional dental cleaning? We at Ivy Rose DDS offer a wide range of dental services, including exams, cleanings, dentures, implants, and more! Head on to our website to learn more!
