Even if you think you’re scrubbing your teeth enough and flossing every day, your six-month dental cleanings are still super important. Your dentist can clean much more thoroughly than you can, not to mention that your checkups are about more than just a sparkly smile—they’re also checking for potential problems.
Keep reading for some important information on the purpose of dental cleanings.
The Purpose of Dental Cleanings
Cleaning, Of Course!
Even saying that your dentist can clean “much more thoroughly” than you is an understatement. The reality is, they have the tools and the training to remove harmful bacteria in your mouth—bacteria that’s impossible to remove with just a toothbrush and some floss.
Plaque buildup in your mouth is difficult to get rid of already (in part because it’s colorless and therefore difficult to detect!) and, if left alone long enough, it develops into tartar. Tartar is extremely difficult to remove, and requires a professional hand to do so.
Plaque and tartar can cause you a lot of problems down the road—receding gum lines, cavities, tooth decay, gum disease, and more. Starting every six months with a clean slate (and a clean mouth!) goes a very long way in preventing problems and keeping your teeth happy and healthy.
Checking for Problems
Aside from getting a deep, unattainable-at-home cleaning, your dentist is also checking your teeth for potential problems. Like plaque, a lot of dental issues are hard to detect—making preventive maintenance extremely important.
Your dentist spent years in dental school for a reason! They’re able to look around your mouth from every angle and catch those subtle signs that could spell trouble down the road. Gum disease, faulty fillings, cavities, tooth decay, and more are all things your dentist will check for. Catching these things as early as possible is crucial to mitigating damage to your teeth.
Providing Solutions
If you’ve been experiencing pain, discomfort, or sensitivity, your dentist will be able to help! Not only will they be able to find the cause: They’ll be able to prescribe the right treatment to get you back on track. While you typically don’t need these things every six months, your dentist will take X-rays or provide fluoride treatments if necessary. This is the perfect time to ask your dentist any questions you might have about your oral health.
Ready for Your Checkup?
Your dental cleaning is about a lot more than just cleaning! Even if you aren’t experiencing any pain or discomfort, it’s crucial to your overall health to catch the signs of oral health problems early on. If you haven’t been in for your six-month checkup yet, it’s time to make an appointment with LeCroy Dental! Get in touch with us today.