One of the most overlooked areas of a person’s overall health is their oral hygiene. While regular brushing and flossing are a good start, it is important to visit a dentist to receive a quality cleaning. Many individuals feel that going to the dentist is a waste of time, but failing to have teeth cleaned on a regular basis can lead to serious oral health issues.
Plaque Removal
During a professional cleaning, a dental hygienist will go a step further than brushing alone. Many use metal teeth cleaning devices or water powered jets to remove plaque from the surface of the teeth, and along the gum line. This not only helps to keep a person’s breath fresh, but it can reduce the occurrence of cavities and other dental health issues that require more invasive treatments.
Polishing
After all of the plaque on a person’s teeth are removed, the dental hygienist will then use a polishing agent, which will help to eliminate the buildup of stains. While over the counter whitening products can contribute to keeping a person’s smile brilliantly white, it pales in comparison to a professional dental polishing which will provide a beautiful smile that can’t be achieved by brushing alone.
Fluoride Treatment
One of the easiest ways to defend against the onset of cavities is to use toothpaste that contains an active fluoride agent. While it is perfect for regular use, a dentist will utilize a stronger fluoride chemical after the cleaning procedure, which will help to increase the integrity of teeth and alleviate the formation of cavities and other serious dental issues.
Brushing Quality
Teeth should be brushed on a daily basis, but many people become lazy and reduce the time or frequency of at home cleanings. This can lead to the formation of plaque, which is one of the greatest causes of cavities. A dental hygienist can look for areas where a person is struggling and make suggestions that can increase the quality of their at-home brushing routine.
Dental Exam
One of the greatest benefits of professional dental cleaning is that the teeth will be examined by a dentist. After performing x-rays, the dentist will then complete a full oral exam, which can help to identify possible problems that should be treated. X-rays will allow the dentist to locate any cavities or other problems that are lurking inside the teeth and gums, which can lead to more serious health issues if not remedied quickly.
Regular tooth brushing is a great start, but to ensure optimal health it is important to see a dentist for regular cleanings. Most recommend at least two professional cleanings each year, which will help keep teeth in excellent shape and reduce the likelihood of future oral health issues.
