Teeth cleaning is an important part of good oral hygiene. It removes a sticky film of bacteria called plaque from all surfaces of your teeth and gums.

It also helps prevent gum disease and bad breath. It is usually done twice a year. Also, a fluoride treatment is applied to help protect your teeth.

Prevents tooth decay

Tooth decay occurs when bacteria that live in the mouth attack sugars and starches in food and drinks. The bacteria convert the sugars into acids that damage teeth. If the acid attacks a tooth for an extended time, it can wear away at the hard, outer enamel. This creates tiny openings or holes in the tooth, which are called cavities.

Having good oral hygiene is the best way to prevent tooth decay. This includes brushing twice a day and flossing, as well as using an interdental brush or a rinse that contains fluoride. It is also important to visit your dentist for regular cleanings and oral exams.

If you notice pain, swelling or other symptoms of a problem with your teeth, make an appointment to see your dentist as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of the problem, your dentist may prescribe treatments such as a filling or root canal to save the damaged tooth.

Prevents gum disease

Gum disease is caused by the buildup of bacteria-laden plaque and hardened tartar (calculus). Dental cleanings help prevent gum diseases by removing these harmful substances and educating patients about good oral hygiene practices. In addition, regular cleanings allow dentists to spot early signs of gum problems, such as red, swollen, or bleeding gums. Detecting these symptoms early on helps to prevent them from progressing into more severe forms of gum disease, like periodontitis, and reduce the risk of tooth loss.

Proper oral hygiene, a balanced diet, and regular dental visits are the best ways to prevent gum disease. However, gum disease can still develop and can cause serious damage to the teeth and bones. Dental cleanings, especially prophylaxis cleanings, can be an important tool in the fight against gum disease. If you have any questions about the importance of dental cleanings, contact us today! We’re here to help you achieve a healthy smile.

Prevents bad breath

A dental cleaning helps prevent bad breath, which is also known as halitosis. It removes the bacteria that cause it from the mouth and gum line. In addition, a dental cleaning helps prevent food debris and plaque buildup. These are the leading causes of bad breath.

Certain foods and drinks such as onions and garlic can cause odors that linger even after brushing and flossing. In addition, fasting and low-carb diets can create unpleasant breath as the body breaks down fats producing chemicals with strong odors. Smoking and tobacco can also produce a foul smell in the mouth.

Chewing sugar-free gum or using mouthwash with 0.12% chlorhexidine gluconate can help improve breath by masking odors. In addition, drinking plenty of water can help keep the mouth moist and reduce bad breath. For persistent bad breath, consult with the dentist and dental hygienist to determine if an oral health concern like gum disease or tooth decay is to blame.

Prevents stains on your teeth

A beautiful smile is one of the most important things a person can have. A bright white smile makes a great first impression and increases confidence. However, food and drink choices can lead to discoloration over time. Fortunately, a professional teeth cleaning, brushing twice daily and flossing regularly can prevent these stains from becoming more serious.

Teeth stains are caused by a variety of factors, including foods, drinks, tobacco and smoking. They can be extrinsic stains on the enamel of your teeth or intrinsic stains in the dentin layer, which are more difficult to remove.

To prevent staining, try drinking coffee, tea and red wine through a straw to minimize their contact with your teeth. Also, choose crunchy fruits and vegetables that stimulate saliva production to wash away any remaining food particles. Rinsing after eating and using a mouthwash containing fluoride can help, too. In addition, a professional teeth cleaning and twice-yearly dental hygienist visits can remove surface stains that aren’t removed by brushing alone.