Most people understand that dental cleanings are important in preventing cavities and tooth loss but don’t realize that regular dental cleanings could save your life. Everyone should get dental cleanings at least twice a year.

There are at least six reasons why dental cleaning is important. Some of the following reasons may surprise you.

1. Cleanings prevent long-term problems like gum disease, which causes tooth loss. This can not only improve your oral health but keep your teeth functioning better, and longer.

Gum disease, gingivitis, and other similar problems can be painful. The bleeding can sting and eating certain foods, like pickles or oranges, can hurt. Keeping up with your cleanings allows you to enjoy all your favorite foods without pain.

Cleanings also prevent tooth decay, which includes cavities, and leads to tooth loss. Tooth decay happens when the acids from bacteria damage the tooth’s enamel. This causes holes in the teeth that form cavities.

An untreated cavity can lead to a toothache but, worse than that, can result in infection. An infection would mean more aggressive treatment like a root canal or tooth extraction. That will cost more and take more recovery time.

Cleaning your teeth with a professional hygienist will also keep your tooth enamel strong. Since enamel can’t be replaced, protecting it is highly important.

2. It allows a dentist to catch problems early.

You may not know when you crack or chip a tooth, especially if the tooth is in the back. Fractures require a digital X-ray to find and you may not notice other small problems like a small cavity or a broken filling.

An exam by a dentist will reveal all these types of things and allow them to address them before they become a serious problem. Cleaning the teeth can also remove bacteria preventing the condition from worsening.

Catching these problems early will also prevent you from experiencing tooth pain as the condition worsens.

3. Regular cleanings can prevent other health issues.

Studies have long linked oral health to other conditions, including diabetes and heart disease. Part of the reason for that is that bacteria that grow in the mouth can travel to other parts of the body. Good oral health also helps reduce the risks of autoimmune diseases too because cleanings remove bacteria that can weaken immune systems further.

Regular dental cleanings can reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks, according to medical studies.

4. A dental cleaning can catch oral cancer in an early stage.

Estimates are that 11,580 people in the U.S. will die in 2023 from oral and oropharyngeal cancer. The death rate dropped for decades but began climbing slowly again beginning in 2009.

Many mouth cancers can be cured if caught early. A routine cleaning twice a year can do a lot to catch these diseases in their earliest stages, allowing for a greater chance of full recovery.

5. Dental cleanings remove stains

Things people eat and drink can leave stains on teeth. Regular cleanings can help remove surface stains, although they may not be able to remove all stains. Even so, getting regular cleanings can make your smile brighter.

6. Regular cleanings feel good.

No one can beat the way your teeth feel after getting a good cleaning. There is a texture to plaque and tartar and removing them leaves a smooth feeling that makes you want to smile. Plus, a hygienist always finishes with a nice-tasting rinse that leaves your mouth feeling fresh.

What’s Involved in a Dental Cleaning?

Dental cleanings are simple procedures that can be done in about an hour. They come as part of an office visit that includes annual X-rays and twice-yearly exams by a dentist. Cleanings, even deeper cleanings, are usually done by a hygienist although some dentists prefer to do the more involved deep cleanings.

Some hygienists will do an initial removal of tartar and plaque for the dentist to do a thorough exam with a standard cleaning following. Those with severe plaque issues may get a standard cleaning with a follow-up deep cleaning scheduled later.=

Make Your Appointment Today

There’s no reason to not get a regular dental cleaning and exam. Dental insurance usually covers cleanings and regular cleanings will save you money in the future in reducing dental problems.

Most dental cleanings will cost between $100 and $200 for those who don’t have insurance. Those who need financial options can get them by talking to our office. We can often find financing that accommodates many budgets.

Getting a dental cleaning could be the next best step you do to improve both your oral health and physical health. It will help you keep your teeth healthy and your smile wider. Make an appointment for a cleaning and exam today and see how good your mouth can feel!