General Dentistry: Why Are Regular Teeth Cleanings Important for Oral Health?

Teeth cleanings are an integral part of general dentistry and are encouraged several times a year. Continue reading to learn more about the importance of keeping regular cleaning appointments. A common misconception is that visiting the dentist is only necessary when there is a noticeable concern with oral health. However, the best way to deal with oral health concerns is by preventing them in the first place.

An overview of regular teeth cleanings in general dentistry

General dentists focus on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of all types of oral health concerns. One way they help with prevention is through regular teeth cleanings, which remove plaque and tartar build-up on teeth and along the gum line. This review discusses the role regular teeth cleanings play in general dentistry.

Why general dentists recommend regular teeth cleanings

General dentists recommend regular teeth cleanings to prevent oral health concerns such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath (halitosis). Regular dental cleanings are not used to treat oral health concerns after they develop.

What are the benefits of regular teeth cleanings?

Teeth cleanings are designed to remove plaque and tartar build-up on teeth. This reduces the risk of cavities, gum disease, and other common oral health concerns. Regular cleanings with a general dentist can also improve the appearance of the smile as well and possibly brighten the teeth.

What are the risks of skipping regular teeth cleanings?

Life can be hectic, and skipping a teeth-cleaning appointment if you have good oral health can be tempting. However, about six months after a cleaning, plaque develops into tartar and starts to wear down teeth and along the gum line. This can cause enamel to weaken and eventually erode, along with increasing the risk of periodontal disease. In the short term, bad breath can result from the odor that the plaque and tartar release, and the shade of teeth may begin to turn an undesirable yellow shade.

How often are regular teeth cleanings recommended?

Regular teeth cleanings are recommended every four to six months in most cases. As mentioned, this is before the time that it takes for plaque to harm teeth, assuming the patient cares for their teeth between visits. Regular teeth cleanings are simple, short procedures that do not typically cause any discomfort. In most cases, they are also covered by dental insurance.

How can I take care of my teeth between cleaning visits?

The best way to protect your teeth and gums between visits is by brushing and flossing consistently each day. Dietary choices can also impact oral health as well, and limiting the consumption of carbohydrates such as sugar and starch can reduce the risk of damage to the enamel or the gums.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: General Dentistry Services in San Luis Obispo, CA

Protect your oral health with a general dentistry visit

If it has been more than six months since your last teeth cleaning visit, then call our general dentistry practice today to schedule an appointment. We can conduct an oral examination, perform a dental cleaning, and discuss any additional cosmetic or restorative goals you may have.

Request an appointment or call Mission Family Dental at 805-205-9278 for an appointment in our San Luis Obispo office.

Related Posts

A General Dentistry Dentist Answers Some FAQs

General dentistry helps prevent, diagnose, and treat a wide range of dental issues, like tooth decay and gum disease. General dentists are the most common types of dentists, and they spend most of their time performing preventative treatments.Many patients have oral health questions for general dentists. Here are the answers to the most frequently asked…

General Dentistry: What Mouthwashes Are Recommended

General dentistry focuses on keeping your mouth healthy, preventing oral problems like tooth decay and gum disease. Brushing twice a day and flossing daily are the foundation of good oral hygiene. A quality mouthwash provides an additional layer of protection.Oral bacteria cause most of the problems that develop in your mouth. Tooth decay is caused…

4 Standard General Dentistry Services

If you wonder why general dentistry is important, just consider what it means to have strong, healthy teeth and gums. By visiting the dentist, you can avoid cavities, gum disease, infections, and other oral diseases. If you happen to struggle with any of these problems, your dentist is available to provide relief. If it has…

Mission Family Dental

Share
Published by
Mission Family Dental

Recent Posts

What Are the Types of Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns stand out among dental restorations as versatile and effective solutions for various oral…

1 week ago

When Is a Dental Crown Needed After Cavity Treatment?

Dental crowns can treat many dental issues, including cavities. Your dentist will always aim to…

2 weeks ago

Restoring Dental Implants With Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are often combined with implants to replace missing teeth. Implants are metal posts…

3 weeks ago

How a Dentist Can Treat TMJ

Treating mild TMJ disorders is possible with non-surgical options.

4 weeks ago

Dental Crowns: Frequently Asked Questions

Dental crowns are one of the most well-known dental restorations. Most people have some idea…

1 month ago

What Can a Dentist Do for a Broken Tooth?

After bonding has set, the tooth will be polished to match the surrounding teeth.

1 month ago