Dental Care
Dental Cleaning
Dental cleaning is an essential part of maintaining good oral hygiene. Regular dental cleaning not only helps keep your teeth and gums healthy but also helps prevent various dental problems. In this article, we will discuss why dental cleaning is important and how it benefits your overall oral health.
What is Dental Cleaning?
Dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is the process of removing tartar and plaque from the teeth to prevent dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Dental cleaning involves two parts: scaling and polishing.
Scaling: Scaling is the process of removing tartar and plaque buildup from the teeth using a special instrument called a scaler. Tartar is a hardened form of plaque that cannot be removed by brushing or flossing.
Polishing: Polishing is the process of smoothing the teeth to remove any surface stains or rough spots using a special paste and rubber cup.
Why is Dental Cleaning Important?
Prevents Tooth Decay and Gum Disease: Plaque and tartar buildup can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. If left untreated, these conditions can cause tooth loss and other serious health problems. Regular dental cleaning helps prevent these conditions by removing plaque and tartar from the teeth.
Prevents Bad Breath: Bad breath is a common problem caused by poor oral hygiene. Dental cleaning removes the bacteria that cause bad breath, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and clean.
Detects Dental Problems Early: During a dental cleaning, your dentist can detect any dental problems early on, such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. Early detection is key to treating these conditions effectively.
Improves Overall Health: Poor oral hygiene can lead to other health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Regular dental cleaning helps improve your overall health by preventing these conditions.
How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends getting a dental cleaning every six months. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings if you have a history of gum disease or other dental problems.
Conclusion
Dental cleaning is an important part of maintaining good oral hygiene. Regular dental cleaning helps prevent tooth decay, gum disease, bad breath, and other dental problems. It also helps detect dental problems early and improves overall health. If you haven't had a dental cleaning in a while, it's time to schedule one with your dentist.