The Benefits of Professional Teeth Cleaning

If you regularly brush and floss your teeth, do you really need to have them cleaned by a professional? Yes, you do. In addition to enhancing the appearance of your smile, regular dental checkups will allow your dentist to keep tabs on your oral health. At Florida Dental Centers in Clearwater, FL, we suggest that our patients come in for a professional teeth cleaning and checkup at least once every six months. Why? During a periodic teeth cleaning appointment, a dental professional can:

Detect & address small issues before they become major problems

The earlier a dental problem is detected, the less invasive, time-consuming, and expensive its treatment is likely to be. Some dental problems can even be resolved before they start. After your teeth are professionally cleaned, a dentist will screen you for problems such as cavities, broken fillings, gum disease, and oral cancer. Many of these conditions can be easily diagnosed in early stages – but only if you see a dentist regularly. This is important because early detection may help you avoid the need for a root canal, tooth extraction, or gum surgery.

Help you ward off gum disease

Gum (periodontal) disease is very common – in fact, approximately 75 percent of Americans have it in some form or another. If left untreated, the condition will gradually worsen, potentially leading to a loss of permanent teeth. In combination with brushing and flossing your teeth every day on your own, having your teeth professionally cleaned on a regular basis is the best way to prevent gum disease and protect your teeth. By removing plaque and tartar below your gum line, a dental professional can slow – and possibly even reverse – the progression of gum disease.

Screen for certain health conditions beyond your teeth & gums

Did you know that taking good care of your teeth can lower your risk of certain serious health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and kidney disease? In fact, recent studies have linked the chronic inflammation associated with gum disease to hardening of the arteries, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. This further underscores the importance of professional teeth cleaning.

Have your teeth cleaned at Florida Dental Centers

According to the American Dental Association (ADA), most people should see a dental professional for a checkup at least once every six months. If you’re overdue for a professional teeth cleaning, make an appointment at Florida Dental Centers in Clearwater, Florida, today.