It’s not uncommon for people to skip routine dental cleanings—after all, they think, how much harm can it really cause?
If you think that skipping out on routine teeth cleaning is no big deal, think again.
Researchers have found a direct link between your oral health and your total health.
Heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, bone loss, and even risk of stroke have been found to be connected to how well you care for your teeth.
One study found that people who skip even one routine habit of dental care—including simple at-home tooth brushing—increase their risk of heart disease by as much as 70 percent.
5 Reasons why you should have routine dental cleanings with your dentist.
1. 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.
2. 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!
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.