Your biannual trip to the dentist may not be your favorite time of year, but it offers several benefits to look forward to that will improve your quality of life. Learn more about the importance of regular cleanings below.

How Regular Cleanings From Your Dentist Improve Your Life

1. Enjoy a Whiter, Fresher Smile

Professional cleanings can remove stains from your teeth to give you a whiter smile, which boosts your confidence. They also freshen your breath by preventing gum irritation and removing bacteria and food particles.

2. Prevent Oral Diseases

Regular deep cleanings keep plaque in check, which lowers your risk of cavities. They also remove hardened plaque, called tartar, from below the gumline. Tartar can’t be removed with regular brushing and causes gum irritation that leads to periodontal disease. Deep cleanings can even treat early stages of the disease.

3. Lower Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Gum disease has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases and events, including heart attacks. Since professional cleanings prevent gum disease, they’re an investment in your heart and vascular health.

4. Detect Problems Early

Regular cleanings allow your dentist to thoroughly examine your mouth for early signs of decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. Early detection means treatment is less invasive and more effective at treating milder symptoms.

5. Save Money

Insurance usually covers biannual cleanings, while the treatments for cavities and disease may require more out of pocket. Without insurance, preventive cleanings are more affordable than emergency dentist visits, extractions, and gum grafting. Treatment for unpreventable diseases like oral cancer is also more affordable if caught early on during an exam.

Is it time to schedule your biannual cleaning or make up for one you missed? Our compassionate dentist at Smile Surgery Center in Anchorage, AK, offers comprehensive, gentle care and over 10 years of experience. Our team will take care of your smile with a detailed plan to treat any concerns we find, from fillings to tooth extractions to bone grafts. Learn more about what we can do for your smile online. For an appointment, call us at (907) 644-4772.