Sometimes we hear advice so often that we forget why it is so important. While some advice like “look both ways before crossing the street” makes perfect common sense, some recommendations may be harder to understand their importance. Starting once the first teeth come in, a person should visit the dentist for an exam and cleaning at least twice a year or once every six months. Why are dental cleanings so important to do in this recommended amount of time? The short answer is that routine cleanings can help prevent dental problems. If you live in Lafayette, LA, and it has been awhile since your last dental cleaning, schedule an appointment as soon as you can.
Removing Bacteria
Your own oral hygiene routine at home is done to remove leftover food and drink debris, as well as any plaque that can build up on the surfaces of your teeth. It takes about one day for plaque to harden or calcify into tartar. While you can remove plaque with floss and a toothbrush, tartar cannot be removed on your own. Tartar is filled with harmful bacteria that can cause cavities. When it is along the gum line, the built up bacteria can cause inflammation and gum disease. A professional dental cleaning removes the tartar and any other bacteria that may be collected in your smile. A deep cleaning also known as a scaling and root planing is the removal of bacteria beneath the gum line and along the tooth’s roots. A deep cleaning may be necessary for anyone suffering from gum disease to prevent the progression of the disease.
Learning Helpful Tips
Your dentist or oral hygienist can recognize the areas of your smile that you are keeping clean and the areas that could use some improvement. A dental cleaning gives them an opportunity to point out the areas that you may be missing with a toothbrush and floss; they may give you detailed action plans on how to improve your hygiene game.
When was your last dental cleaning?
Everyone should have a dental cleaning at least twice a year. To schedule a consultation, contact us at our Lafayette, LA, dentist’s office at 337-237-6453. We proudly serve patients from Breaux Bridge, Broussard, Scott, Youngsville, and surrounding communities.
