Can Dental Cleanings Prevent Cavities and Gum Disease?

Having healthy teeth and gums is crucial to your overall health, and visiting your dentist regularly is one way to ensure that. Dental cleaning is one of the most effective ways to ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy. While brushing your teeth daily is important, it is not enough because it cannot reach certain areas of your mouth.

Professional dental cleanings involve more than you can perform by yourself at home. The process removes any plaque and tartar that have formed, which may cause cavities or gum disease if left untreated. In this blog, we will explore how you can use this treatment to help prevent common problems with your teeth.

The Importance of Regular Dental Cleanings

Cavities and gum disease (periodontitis) are two very common dental issues that can affect individuals of all ages. The root cause of both cavities and periodontitis is plaque, a biofilm composed of bacteria. This plaque accumulates on a person’s teeth, even when they brush regularly.

Plaque can only be removed by a professional, highlighting the importance of dental cleanings in Waukegan. In this process, a dental hygienist or dentist will thoroughly clean your teeth, removing plaque and tartar, particularly where your brush can’t reach. It will help you avoid the two primary sources of tooth decay and gum infections.

Benefits of Regular Dental Cleanings

Even though the main aim of routine cleaning is the prevention of cavities and gum diseases, the treatment has other benefits as well that contribute to your health:

1. Prevention of Bad Breath: Plaque and/or tartar can cause halitosis (bad breath). Keeping your teeth clean helps to maintain fresh breath.
2. Whiter Teeth: Plaque may accumulate on your teeth, leaving them to look yellowish or dull. Professional cleaning removes any existing dental plaque, leaving your teeth looking brighter, whiter, and cleaner.
3. Early Identification of Oral Health Concerns: In addition to the cleaning process, your hygienist and dentist can evaluate your mouth for potential problems, including oral cancer or sensitivity, while they are still treatable.
4. Prevention of Heart Disease: Gum disease has been shown to increase the risk of heart disease. Taking good care of your gums could help prevent heart trouble.

How Dental Cleanings Help Prevent Cavities

Cavities occur when the plaque and bacteria produce an acid that consumes the enamel on your teeth. If the problem isn’t addressed, the result could be cavities and tooth loss. Cleanings help to eliminate the plague before the decaying process begins.

The routine cleaning procedure carried out by a registered dental hygienist includes:

1. Scaling: The hygienist will remove the plaque and tartar build-up using special instruments above and below the gum line.
2. Polishing: The teeth are polished after scaling to remove any remaining plaque. 
3. Fluoride Treatment (Optional): Some offices provide fluoride treatments. This will help fortify teeth and provide additional protection against cavities. 

Regular plaque removal helps prevent bacteria that cause cavities from sticking to your teeth, which in turn helps prevent cavities and keeps your teeth healthy and strong.

How Dental Cleanings Help Prevent Gum Disease

Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, begins when plaque forms and irritates the gums. The irritation causes inflammation and infection. Gum diseases can progress if left untreated, leading to tooth loss and complications in general health.

Gum disease has two stages:

1. Gingivitis: This represents the initial stage of gum disease, manifested by redness, swelling, and bleeding gums, and can usually be reversed through professional cleaning and good oral hygiene practices.
2. Periodontitis: A further stage of infection that affects the gum tissues and bone. This stage, left unchecked, can be the cause of tooth loss and a host of health issues.

Additionally, routine cleanings help prevent gum disease by removing plaque and tartar from areas prone to bacterial growth. By cleaning your teeth, your dental hygienist helps ensure your gums stay healthy, thereby preventing gingivitis or gum disease.

What Happens During a Cleaning Appointment?

Dental cleaning is a comfortable and thorough process. This is what you can expect during your visit.

1. Examination: The hygienist will begin by examining your teeth and gums to check for signs of issues such as cavities, gum disease, or plaque accumulation.
2. Scaling: Using professional equipment, the hygienist will scale your teeth to remove plaque and tartar, both around your gum line and between your teeth.
3. Polishing: After scaling, the hygienist will polish your teeth to remove any remaining plaque and give them a bright shine.
4. Fluoride Treatment: Depending on your dental health, a fluoride treatment may be performed to strengthen your enamel and help prevent cavities.

This procedure typically takes around 30 to 60 minutes and is usually painless. Regular teeth cleanings help ensure your teeth stay healthy and strong for years to come.

How Frequently Should You Get Your Teeth Cleaned?

In most people’s cases, dental checkups and cleanings should be carried out every six months. However, this may not be the case for everyone, such as those who have had gum disease, smokers, and those with certain health conditions. These individuals may need to visit the dentist more frequently.

Not only can regular dental visits help remove plaque from your teeth, but they can also give your dentist or dental hygienist the opportunity to detect potential problems early. If problems such as cavities or gum disease are detected early, they can often be treated before they become more serious.

Maintain a Healthy Smile with Routine Cleanings

Dental cleaning in Waukegan is a key to maintaining good oral health. Routine cleaning helps remove dental plaque and tartar that can’t be removed by brushing and flossing. Along with ensuring dental cleanliness, cleaning can also promote general health.

Has it been a while since your last routine cleaning? Don’t wait anymore! Our team at Avery Family Dentistry is here to help you restore your gentle smile and oral health. Let us help you stay on the right track to maintain your smile for years to come.

FAQs

1: How long does a dental cleaning take?
Typically, a dental cleaning takes around 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your oral health. The process includes scaling, polishing, and sometimes a fluoride treatment. If you have plaque buildup or other issues, it may take a bit longer, but it’s a simple, quick procedure for maintaining healthy teeth.

2: Do dental cleanings hurt?
Dental cleanings are generally pain-free. However, if you have sensitive gums or teeth, you might feel some discomfort. Let your hygienist know so they can adjust their approach to ensure you are comfortable throughout the process. Regular cleanings help prevent discomfort by maintaining good oral health.

3: How can I maintain my teeth after a cleaning?
After your cleaning, continue brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash to maintain a clean mouth. Avoid sugary foods and beverages, as they can lead to plaque buildup. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings, along with consistent at-home care, will keep your teeth healthy and cavity-free.

4: Is it necessary to get dental cleanings if I don’t have any dental problems?
Yes, even if you feel your teeth are healthy, regular dental cleanings are crucial for prevention. Plaque and tartar can build up unnoticed, leading to cavities or gum disease. Routine cleanings help detect problems early, ensuring your oral health stays in top condition and preventing future issues.

5: How do dental cleanings affect my overall health?
Dental cleanings not only improve oral health but also have a positive impact on your overall well-being. Gum disease has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues. By preventing oral infections, regular cleanings help reduce the risk of systemic health problems and keep you feeling your best.