Taking care of your teeth and gums at home is important, but it’s not always enough to ensure optimal oral health and wellness on its own. Getting your teeth cleaned by a professional has many advantages over doing it yourself.
Thorough Cleaning
Professional dental cleaning is highly beneficial due to the comprehensive cleaning it provides. It’s important to note that even with daily brushing and flossing, certain areas of the mouth can be challenging to clean thoroughly. Dental hygienists are equipped with the necessary skills and tools to effectively clean hard-to-reach areas, including the back molars and spaces between teeth. Preventing plaque and tartar buildup is important as it can cause dental problems like cavities and gum disease.
Early Detection of Dental Issues
Professional dental cleanings also help find problems with your teeth early on. During a dental cleaning, the dentist and dental assistant carefully check the teeth, gums, and other parts of the mouth for signs of problems like cavities, gum disease and even oral cancer. If you catch these problems early, you can treat them right away. This can help you avoid bigger problems and save you time, money and pain in the long run.
Tartar Removal
Tartar cannot be completely eliminated through at-home dental care, regardless of how thorough the cleaning routine is. When plaque is not removed properly, it can lead to the formation of tartar, which is a tough, mineralized buildup that accumulates on teeth. The only way to eliminate it is by getting a professional dental cleaning. Dental hygienists perform tartar removal using specialized instruments to lower the chances of cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss.
Polishing and Stain Removal
Over time, teeth can become stained or discolored due to factors such as aging, smoking, and consuming certain foods and beverages. During a professional dental cleaning, the dental hygienist uses polishing paste and a rotating brush to remove surface stains and polish the teeth. This not only improves the appearance of your smile but also creates a smoother surface that is less likely to accumulate plaque and tartar.
Customized Oral Care Advice
Professional dental cleanings offer the opportunity to receive personalized oral care advice from dental experts. During your appointment, the dentist and dental hygienist will assess your oral hygiene habits and provide recommendations to enhance them. You can seek guidance from dental professionals to select the most appropriate oral care products for your specific needs. Dental professionals possess expertise in this area and can provide valuable assistance in making informed choices.
Preventive Care
Lastly, professional dental cleanings are essential for preventive care. Regular dental visits combined with daily at-home care can help prevent the development of dental issues and maintain overall oral health. Many dental problems like cavities and gum disease, can be avoided or minimized through early detection and timely intervention.
In conclusion, regular professional dental cleanings are an important part of maintaining good oral health together with diligent at-home maintenance. Thorough cleaning, early detection of dental concerns, tartar removal, polishing, individualized oral care guidance, and preventive treatment are just a few of the benefits of professional dental cleaning that significantly outweigh the work and costs associated with at-home care alone. Regular visits to the dentist for cleanings and checkups are an investment in a lifetime of good oral health and a gleaming grin.