• 01 JUN 16
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    Four Benefits of Regular Tooth Cleaning Visits

    Whether you’re 8 or 80 years old, dental health is important for everyone. Brushing and flossing every day certainly tops the list of ways you can take care of your teeth, but regular cleanings at Evanson DDS are also vital for good oral health.

    According to the American Dental Association, you should have your teeth cleaned at least twice per year. Some people need checkups more often than this. Despite this recommendation, the ADA states that almost a third of Americans fail to visit the dentist even once a year. If you fall within this category, learn a little more about professional tooth cleaning visits and why they’re so important, not just for your oral health, but your overall well being.

    Four Benefits of Regular Tooth Cleaning VisitsWhat Professional Tooth Cleanings Entail

    Plaque is a sticky deposit of bacteria on your teeth that can cause cavities. Tartar, or calculus, is a hard, crusty deposit that traps stains and causes tooth discoloration. Brushing and flossing removes plaque, but it’s more difficult to remove tartar from your teeth at home. For this, you need to visit Dr. Evanson for a professional cleaning. The process involves three steps:

    • Scaling is when the dentist uses special tools to remove tartar buildup from along your gum line.
    • Polishing involves power brushing your teeth with a gritty paste to remove any remaining surface stains.
    • Flossing is the final step used to remove any lingering debris from between your teeth.

    Benefits of Regular Tooth Cleanings

    An obvious benefit is that having cleaner teeth improves your appearance and makes you more confident. However, the most important reasons to have your teeth cleaned regularly are in regards to your health. Here are four benefits you don’t want to pass up.

    Protect Your Teeth and Gums

    75 percent of Americans have some form of gum disease, or periodontal disease, but early diagnosis can treat and even reverse the condition. If left untreated, gum disease can become serious and cause your permanent teeth to fall out. Regular dental cleanings – as well as brushing and flossing on your own every day – are a key way to prevent gum disease and protect your teeth.

    Detect Dental Problems Early

    You might schedule just a cleaning, but during the visit, Dr. Evanson will screen you for other problems such as oral cancer, cavities, broken fillings and gum disease. These conditions are easy to diagnose early, but only if you come to the dentist regularly. Early detection helps you avoid the need for a root canal, gum surgery or tooth extraction.

    Prevent Bad Breath

    In most cases of chronic bad breath, or halitosis, an underlying dental problem is to blame. By keeping your teeth healthy and free from tartar buildup with regular cleanings, you can prevent bad breath from getting in the way of your social life.

    Protect Your Overall Health

    Did you know that taking good care of your teeth can lower your risk of heart attack and stroke? WebMD sites several studies that link chronic inflammation from gum disease to hardening of the arteries, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. In a study of 100,000 Taiwanese adults, those who had their teeth professionally scaled every six months were 24 percent less likely to have a heart attack and 13 percent less likely to have a stroke. By preventing gum disease with regular cleanings, you also reduce your chance of contracting diabetes and chronic kidney disease.

    At Evanson DDS, we believe in following the ADA’s recommendation of having your teeth cleaned twice per year. Preventative dentistry keeps your smile beautiful and healthy for many years to come. To schedule an appointment, please contact us online or call us at (720) 409-0008.

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