You have undoubtably been told that it is important to have your teeth cleaned twice a year by a dental hygienist, but do you know why? You may be surprised to learn that it is vital not only for your oral health but to your overall health, as well. Poor oral health can lead to a host of both dental and medical problems such as gum disease, infection, bone loss, heart disease, strokes and more.
(1) Basic Care For Your Oral Health
Regular dental hygiene visits enable the dentist and hygienist to examine your teeth and mouth, as well as to compare the information with previous dental check up.
(2) Screen For Signs Of Oral Cancer
Oral cancer is highly curable if diagnosed early. According to The Oral Cancer Foundation, in the United States alone, someone dies from oral cancer every hour of every day. During your dental hygiene visit, the hygienist will screen you for oral cancer.
(3) Prevent Gum Disease
Gum disease is an infection in the gum tissues and the bone that help to keep your teeth in place. If diagnosed early, gum disease can be treated and even reversed; however, if not treated, the gum disease will progress and become even more serious.
(4) Enhance Your Overall Physical Health
Recent scientific studies have linked heart attacks and strokes to gum disease. Routine dental cleanings help to keep your teeth and gums healthy and to reduce your risk of heart disease and strokes.
(5) Keep Your Teeth For A Lifetime
Regular dental cleanings, as well as brushing and flossing, are vital to keeping as many teeth as you can help to prevent gum disease which one of the leading causes of adult tooth loss.
(6) Detect Any Dental Problems Early
When cavities, broken fillings and gum disease are diagnosed in early stages, they are easily treatable. If these problems go untreated, however, it is necessary to perform root canals, gum surgery and even to remove teeth.
(7) Maximize Your Dental Insurance Benefits
Insurance companies understand that having routine care helps to avoid costly and extensive dental treatment down the road, so most dental insurance plans pay for most or even all dental cleanings and exams check ups every six months.
(8) Keep Your Breath Fresh
Dental studies show that about 85 percent of people with persistent bad breath, also known as halitosis have a dental problem that is to blame. Good oral hygiene is essential in preventing bad breath. Regular check ups and cleanings are the best way to make sure that you are maintaining good oral hygiene.
(9) Keep Your Smile White and Bright
Finally, during your cleaning, the hygienist removes stains from tobacco, coffee and tea, and polishes your teeth too for a whiter and brighter smile.
What Is The First Step Toward Improving Your Oral Health?
Schedule an appointment to have your teeth cleaned and for an oral exam with the dentist. No lectures, no guilt. The sooner you come in the sooner we can work together to move toward overall health. If you have questions, always feel free to ask. We look forward to helping you.
