Benefits of Dental Cleaning

Keeping your teeth clean is a simple, effective way to stay healthy, feel confident, and avoid costly dental issues. You can do this at home by brushing and flossing every day. However, even a diligent oral care routine isn’t enough. You also need professional dental cleanings to fight off problems and clean more thoroughly than your toothbrush can. If you’ve ever thought about skipping your six-month appointment, think again. A little preventive dentistry goes a long way toward avoiding trouble in the future.

What Is Dental Cleaning?

Dental cleaning is performed by a dentist or hygienist to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from your teeth. It’s a routine part of preventive dental care that guards against cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. Dental cleaning targets hard-to-reach areas near the gum line and between teeth. It’s also a chance for your dentist to assess your oral health.

Your dentist or hygienist may recommend a certain type of dental cleaning based on your oral health and specific needs. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:

• Prophylaxis cleaning is the standard for people with generally healthy gums. It removes plaque, tartar, and surface stains above the gumline using manual instruments or an ultrasonic dental cleaner.
• Scaling and root planing is often recommended for patients with gum disease. This “deep cleaning” targets plaque and tartar below the gumline using manual scalers, ultrasonic tools, or laser dental cleaning. Root planing smooths the root surfaces to reduce gum inflammation and prevent future infections.
• Gross debridement is used for patients with heavy plaque and tartar buildup that makes a full exam difficult. It’s the first step to clear the way for more detailed care. Strong manual tools or an ultrasonic dental cleaner are used to break through thick deposits, often followed by standard or deep cleaning methods once the buildup is removed.

10 Benefits of Dental Cleaning

So, why should you prioritize dental cleaning? The benefits are immediate and last until your next appointment—as long as you continue brushing and flossing daily. Here’s why scheduling a cleaning every six months (or as often as your dentist recommends) is worth it:

1. Prevent cavities: Plaque is a sticky film full of bacteria that clings to your teeth. Over time, it hardens into tartar and eats away at the enamel, causing cavities. Dental cleanings remove plaque and tartar before they can do serious damage, protecting your teeth so they stay cavity-free.
2. Stop the progression of gum disease: The first stage of gum disease, known as gingivitis, is characterized by swollen, bleeding gums. Left untreated, it can lead to periodontitis and even tooth loss. Regular dental cleanings remove the plaque buildup that causes inflammation and keep your gums healthy and strong.
3. Freshen your breath: Bad breath is a symptom of poor oral hygiene and gum disease. Cleanings eliminate odor-causing bacteria and trapped food particles for fresher breath.
4. Whiten your smile: Stains from coffee, tea, red wine, or smoking build up over time. Professional cleanings buff away surface stains, leaving your teeth brighter and helping you smile with greater confidence.
5. Detect problems early: Cleanings are the best way to catch issues while they’re still small. Whether your dentist spots a tiny cavity, a worn filling, or signs of oral cancer, early detection means you can address it before it becomes more serious.
6. Save money on future treatments: Dental cleanings are inexpensive compared to restorative services. Plus, insurance covers preventive care, making these visits free for many patients.
7. Keep your natural teeth longer: Regular cleanings prevent gum recession and bone loss, two leading causes of tooth loss. Regular cleanings are a must if you want to keep your natural teeth as you age.
8. Boost whole-body wellness: Keeping your mouth clean protects more than just your teeth. Bacteria from gum infections can enter the bloodstream and contribute to heart disease, diabetes complications, and other systemic problems. As a result, prioritizing dental cleaning supports your overall health.
9. Simplify future visits: Skipping cleanings allows plaque and tartar to accumulate. Staying on top of your appointments minimizes buildup, which means shorter, more comfortable visits in the future.
10. Receive advice for better home care: Every cleaning is a chance for professional feedback. Your hygienist can tell you if you’re missing spots when brushing, recommend different tools, or offer tips to keep your mouth cleaner between visits.

Time to Schedule Your Next Cleaning

It matters where you get your teeth cleaned. If you’re in McAllen, TX, choose Dental Park to work with an experienced, friendly team that genuinely cares about your smile. We accept most major insurance plans and offer an exam, X-ray, and basic cleaning for just $119. Book your visit today at one of our two convenient locations and see how easy great dental care can be.