- Robert P. Choi, DDS
Top 6 Things a Dental Cleaning Can Do for You
Going to get your regular cleaning with the hygienist can seem routine and unimportant, but there are many good reasons for having your teeth cleaned. In addition to brushing and flossing daily, getting a hygiene cleaning is an important part of keeping your smile beautiful and healthy.
Save money Get the most value from your dental benefits. Most insurance plans have low or no copayments/coinsurance for dental cleanings and oral exams. If you take advantage of your benefits now, you may be able to save money in the long run by helping to protect your oral health and potentially avoiding more costly and extensive procedures.
Prevent cavities The whitish film that builds up on your teeth is called plaque and is the leading cause of tooth decay. This acidic substance eats away at the tooth enamel and, if left unattended, can lead to cavities. Plaque can be removed by brushing, flossing and dental cleanings. Stop tooth loss Gum disease, which starts with built-up plaque, is a major cause of tooth loss in adults. As gum disease advances, plaque moves further down the tooth where it can destroy the supporting bone in your jaw, causing teeth to loosen and fall out. Luckily, the chance of this happening to you can be greatly reduced through regular dental cleanings combined with good oral hygiene habits. Brighten your smile Drinking coffee, tea and wine or using tobacco can stain your teeth. A dental cleaning can remove built-up stains and leave you with freshly polished teeth. The result? A whiter, brighter smile! Freshen your breath Good oral hygiene is the best way to prevent persistent bad breath. Even if you brush and floss regularly, getting a cleaning is a great way to keep your mouth healthy and odor-free. Boost your overall health Studies have shown a connection between oral and overall health. Regular dental cleanings may help lower your risk for some diseases, like heart disease and stroke. Many medical conditions, some of them life-threatening, can be detected in their early stages by your dentist during a routine oral exam.
Just a Reminder
If it's been been more than 6 months since your last dental hygiene cleaning or if you haven't had one this year so far, schedule today. We are now halfway through the year, and dental insurances usually cover up to 2 cleanings per calendar year. Contact us if you have any questions regarding your insurance coverage.