THERE IS NO DOUBT that daily brushing and flossing are essential. But regular professional cleanings from your family dentist in Puyallup, Washington is crucial, no matter your age. Teeth cleanings should be done by your dentist twice a year.
What is a Dental Cleaning Procedure?
A dental cleaning by a family dentist typically begins with a physical exam of the mouth, X-rays and a periodontal screening. These screenings are essential for checking the gums for inflammation, bleeding and sensitivity.
After the exam, hard calcified bacteria deposits (tartar) that coat the teeth and gums are removed using scalers and ultrasonic instruments. Once removed and the teeth are clean, your family dentist will polish and apply a fluoride treatment to strengthen the teeth.
What are the Benefits of Dental Cleanings by a Family Dentist?
Regular teeth cleanings not only keep smiles looking bright, but boast many benefits to both oral and general health. Here are some reasons why professional dental cleanings by your family dentist in Puyallup, WA are essential.
1. Early detection for dental problems
During a cleaning with Dove Family Dentistry, patients may receive X-rays to check the condition of the teeth, roots and jaw for unseen problems with an oral exam. The X-rays show the position of the teeth and can help determine if there is a need for braces and indicate if there are any infections, cysts, or tumors.
2. Prevents cavities and gum disease
During a dental cleaning, plaque is removed. If plaque builds up, it hardens into tartar which causes tooth decay. The bacteria in plaque is full of acid that eats at tooth enamel, which eventually leads to cavities in your teeth.
Gum disease starts when plaque builds up. The bacteria in the plaque infects the gums around and below the gumline. Your family dentist removes this plaque during the cleaning, which reduces the risk of developing gum disease.
3. No more halitosis
Halitosis, or bad breath, is not necessarily from eating a bit of garlic, but is almost always caused by an underlying dental issue. Plaque harbors bad smelling bacteria. If not removed, it creates bad breath which is uncomfortable for everyone involved. Read here about bad breath in the Middle Ages.
4. Improves total health
Untreated infections and cavities can lead to the loss of a tooth. However, the issues do not end there. Bad oral conditions where bacteria thrive contribute to many other diseases and health problems.
Gum disease can increase the risk of heart disease. The bacteria in the gums may lead to the narrowing of arteries. Endocarditis is an infection that affects the heart’s inner lining. It’s a bacteria that spreads through the bloodstream from somewhere else on the body, such as the gums.
Bacteria in the mouth can spread into the lungs to cause bronchitis or even pneumonia. Gum disease worsens chronic lung diseases such as asthma because of the inflammation in the airways. Untreated gum infections have even been linked to premature labor.
Preventative dental care by your family dentist is vital to oral health and general health. Don’t wait too long for your cleanings. They can help identify problems early and nip them in the bud before a severe problem starts. Come see Dove Family Dentistry in Puyallup, Washington for the best preventive dentistry around.
