It’s the year 2020 and we have one question for you: when is your next teeth cleaning?

You may be excited to say that you have a specific date scheduled for your next cleaning or it may turn out that you are one of the many adults who have no plans of getting a dental cleaning this year.

Whatever the decision is, the choice is yours — but what happens to those who decide it’s better to skip their cleaning than get one? Today, we unravel the consequences of skipping a dental cleaning and how that decision can impact your overall wellbeing. Continue reading to learn more!

Preventative Dentistry and Dental Cleanings

Keeping up with your dental care can be a pain, but what’s even worse is ignoring the upkeep of your teeth and mouth. This is where preventative dentistry comes into play. Preventative Dentistry is simple; it’s the modern way of keeping your teeth and mouth in a healthy condition. If you want less visits to the dental emergency room, cavities, chances of periodontal disease, or any other significant dental health problem, you’ll want to schedule that dental cleaning.

Still not convinced? Here’s what a professional teeth cleaning can offer you:

  • Overall maintaining good oral health
  • Periodontal disease prevention
  • Cavity prevention
  • Tartar buildup prevention
  • Removal of tooth stains

Can anyone benefit from preventive dentistry?

Yes, anyone can benefit from preventive dentistry! And fun fact: even individuals without teeth can benefit from preventive dentistry. During your visit, your dentist will screen you for mouth cancer and/or denture stomatitis. In addition, both children, young adults, and mature adults.

Skipping Your Dental Cleaning: Cavities

You’ve most likely heard of the term “cavities” — but do you know what they are? Simply put, cavities can also be described as tooth decay. Tooth decay happens when tooth enamel, the hard, outer layer of your teeth is worn down. This is a result of plaque, the film of bacteria, forming on your teeth. Depending on what you consume, the bacteria in plaque produces specific acids that attack tooth enamel and eventually wear down your teeth.

Why Are Dental Cleanings Needed for Cavity Prevention?

Getting a dental cleaning ensures that plaque does not build-up to the point of forming cavities. During your dental cleaning, your dental hygienist will clean your mouth thoroughly, ensuring that you remove tartar buildup.

Skipping Your Dental Cleaning: Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease — commonly known as gum disease — is a pathological inflammatory condition of the gum and bone support surrounding the teeth.

The two most common periodontal diseases are:

  • Gingivitis – inflammation of the gum at the necks of the teeth, and
  • Periodontitis – inflammation affecting the bone and tissues of the teeth.

Adults should be aware that periodontal disease is the most severe case of gum disease because it affects not just the necks of the teeth, but also the bone and tissues of the teeth as well. If periodontitis worsens overtime, adults have an increased chance of completely losing their teeth.

Why Are Dental Cleanings Needed for Periodontal Disease Prevention?

Here’s something to consider: periodontal disease is an increasing health risk which will not go away by itself. In fact, periodontal disease requires professional treatment.  Receiving a professional teeth cleaning is essential to prevent periodontal diseases as well.

Schedule Your Next Dental Cleaning With North Pointe Dental Associates

If it’s been a while since your last teeth cleaning, now is the time to receive a treatment plan that works for you. Our dental services at North Pointe, located in Tampa Bay, include deep cleanings. This is perfect for the person who hasn’t been to the dentist in a while — and trust us, we have many patients come in after a long time away from the dentist!

 

Don’t have dental insurance? Read one of our latest blogs on how to afford dental care without dental insurance today.

 

Get in touch today: (813) 961-1727!