Many people don’t like going to the dentist, so they put off their regular teeth cleanings. But if you don’t go in for preventative dental care every six months, you might find yourself at the dentist a whole lot more. A good teeth cleaning from the dentists at  J. Bryson McBratney, D.D.S. in Anchorage, AK, will prevent everything from painful toothaches to gum disease to stained teeth.

Here are five reasons why you should get regular teeth cleanings — and a look at what can happen if you don’t:

• Stop Tooth Loss: Although brushing and flossing help keep your teeth clean, you can’t remove tartar at home. During cleanings, the dentists at J. Bryson McBratney, D.D.S. remove this tartar and polish your teeth, which prevents tooth decay and cavities. If tooth decay goes untreated, you might lose some of your teeth.
• Prevent Gum Disease. Gum disease usually happens as a result of poor dental care. During teeth cleanings, dentists will check your gums and can prevent gum diseases by intervening if they notice a problem. Without regular cleanings, gum disease can go untreated and can lead to painful inflammation and ultimately tooth loss.
• Brighten Your Smile: A good teeth cleaning from a dental professional will leave your smile brighter than before. The dentists can remove built-up coffee, tea, wine, and tobacco stains. J. Bryson McBratney, D.D.S. also offers teeth whitening services.
• Freshen Your Breath: Dental problems, such as tooth decay and gum disease, are some of the leading causes of bad breath. Good dental care will prevent bad breath, and a regular teeth cleaning appointment will keep your mouth odor-free.
• Save Money: People who avoid the dentist for a long time are more likely to undergo painful and expensive treatments in the future. If a cavity is caught during a teeth cleaning, the process to fill it is fast, simple, and inexpensive. However, if a cavity goes untreated, you might need a root canal, which is a much more painful and expensive process.

Regular teeth cleanings from the dentist are the first step toward a healthier smile. Dr. McBratney and his team of dentists will improve your overall dental health and prevent bigger problems in the future. For more information about the services J. Bryson McBratney, D.D.S. offers, visit the website or call (907) 562-3323 to set up an appointment today.