Regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health. Even if you brush and floss your teeth diligently every day, there are certain areas of your mouth that are hard to reach, where plaque and bacteria can accumulate over time. A professional dental cleaning can help remove this buildup and prevent oral health problems such as gum disease and tooth decay. In this guide, we'll discuss the importance of regular dental cleanings and what you can expect during a cleaning appointment. 

Why Is It Important to Have Your Teeth Professionally Cleaned? 

Even if you have good oral hygiene habits at home, it's important to have your teeth professionally cleaned by a dentist or dental hygienist. A professional cleaning removes the buildup of plaque and tartar that can accumulate on your teeth over time. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth and gums, and if it's not removed regularly, it can harden into tartar, which is much harder to remove. Tartar buildup can lead to gum disease, which can cause serious oral health problems if left untreated. 

How Gum Disease Can Affect Your General Health 

Gum disease doesn't just affect your teeth and gums; it can also have a negative impact on your overall health. Recent research has shown that gum disease is linked to other health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. When you have gum disease, the bacteria in your mouth can travel through your bloodstream and affect other parts of your body. This is why it's so important to prevent gum disease by maintaining good oral hygiene habits and having regular dental cleanings. 

Preventing Gum Disease 

The best way to prevent gum disease is to practice good oral hygiene habits at home and have regular dental cleanings. Brush your teeth twice a day for at least two minutes each time, and floss at least once a day to remove food particles and bacteria from between your teeth. In addition, make sure to schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings to keep your teeth and gums healthy. 

What to Expect during Your Professional Cleaning 

During your professional cleaning, a dental hygienist will use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums. They may also use a scaler to remove any hardened tartar from your teeth. Once your teeth are clean, the hygienist will polish them to remove any surface stains and make them feel smooth and shiny. 

Get Customized Advice on Brushing and Flossing 

Your dental hygienist can also provide customized advice on brushing and flossing based on your individual needs. They may recommend a specific type of toothbrush or dental floss that is best for your teeth and gums, and they can show you proper techniques for brushing and flossing to ensure that you're doing it effectively. 

How Often Should You Have Your Teeth Professionally Cleaned? 

The frequency of your dental cleanings will depend on your individual needs and oral health history. For most people, it's recommended to have a professional cleaning every six months. However, if you have a history of gum disease or other oral health problems, your Dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings to help prevent future issues. 

Conclusion 

Regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaining good oral health and preventing gum disease. In addition, they can have a positive impact on your overall health by reducing the risk of other health problems such as heart disease and diabetes. If you're looking for a dentist in Etobicoke, North Queen Dental offers comprehensive dental services, including regular cleanings and checkups. Contact us today to schedule your next appointment.