Taking care of the teeth and gums starts at birth and must continue throughout your entire life. However, many people tend to neglect their oral health until significant damage has already been done. In addition to brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day, one of the best things you can do to maintain a healthy, beautiful smile is to schedule biannual teeth cleanings with your dentist. Review the professional benefits teeth cleaning services offer before making your next appointment.

What Benefits Can I Expect From Routine Professional Teeth Cleanings?

1. Prevents Gum Disease

Dental cleanings by a dentist or dental hygienist remove what your toothbrush and floss can not, significant tartar buildup. The hardened form of plaque, tartar forms under the gumline, resulting in irritation, redness, inflammation, and recession. Without routine removal, tartar and mouth bacteria cause gingivitis and gum disease. Also known as periodontal disease, it eventually results in tooth loss and partial facial collapse.

2. Reduces Tooth Decay

Seeing your dentist twice a year helps minimize plaque accumulation to prevent tooth decay, as well. The acid in plaque erodes enamel, which increases tooth sensitivity and creates cavities. Your dentist also lets you know about existing cavities so that you can get them cleaned and filled before they worsen and become painful. Deep cavities can become infected and increase the risk of abscesses, which often results in the need for root canals.

3. Whitens Teeth

Dental cleanings include polishing services that remove surface stains for a whiter, brighter smile. They remove stains from wine, coffee, tobacco, and tea, among other agents. This is especially important if you have an upcoming event where you will be photographed frequently.

4. Saves Money

Because professional teeth cleanings help prevent gingivitis, gum disease, cavities, and tooth loss, they help you avoid costly dental bills associated with intensive treatments, such as root canals and gum reconstruction. You’ll save money on oral care over time since many issues get identified before they require extensive procedures to be repaired.

5. Helps Improve Overall Health

Since oral health indicates overall wellness, regular dental cleanings help your entire body stay healthy and strong. Gum disease, for example, shares a link with diseases and conditions, including diabetes, respiratory disease, heart disease, stroke, and rheumatoid arthritis. Teeth cleanings subsequently serve as screenings that boost bodily health by addressing many health concerns at their root. 

Serving families since 2017, Wheeler Family Dental provides teeth cleanings, among many other general and cosmetic dentistry services, including dental implants, emergency care, and porcelain veneers. Dental patients of all ages are welcome. Call the dentistry center in Chesterfield, MO, today at (314) 576-3737 to schedule an appointment or visit the locally-owned practice online for more information.