Going to the dentist isn’t always a fun or enjoyable experience. But if you don’t visit your dentist at least twice a year, you could be at a higher risk of developing decay and damage. Routine dental cleanings in Flint, TX, are crucial to help prevent plaque buildup and gum disease. While brushing and flossing can remove a majority of the harmful bacteria in your mouth, you still need a professional cleaning to fully remove plaque and tartar. Most patients will need to see the dentist every six months for their hygiene appointments. However, your dentist may recommend a four or three-month schedule instead.
Why You Need Professional Dental Cleanings in Flint, TX
When you brush and floss your teeth, you remove plaque and help keep acidity levels down. Adding an antibacterial mouthwash can also help improve your oral hygiene. However, it’s nearly impossible to completely remove plaque, especially if you have crooked teeth. Over time, plaque can harden into tartar, which can’t often be removed by at-home oral hygiene. If you allow plaque and tartar to build up on your teeth, it could lead to worsening dental conditions. Routine dental cleanings could help protect you from the following problems.
Cavities
Plaque and tartar eat sugar and produce acid. This acid can weaken the enamel of your teeth, often leading to decay. Even if you brush and floss twice a day, hidden plaque could still contribute to high acidity in your mouth. Given enough time, this increased acidity could cause you to develop cavities. While small cavities can often be treated with a dental filling, larger cavities may need more invasive treatment.
Gum Disease
Plaque and tartar can also affect your gums. As the acidity levels rise and your enamel wears away, your gums could become diseased. Gum disease often leads to a receding gum line and deep pockets around your teeth. These pockets often make it even more difficult to keep your teeth and gums clean. If you do develop advanced gum disease, you may need to get a dental cleaning every three months to help prevent further damage.
Chips and Fractures
Enamel loss can lead to decay, but it can also increase the chance of tooth damage. Enamel is one of the strongest layers of our teeth, and it works to help protect our teeth while chewing and talking. If you have enamel loss, you could chip or fracture your tooth more easily. While it’s not possible to restore lost enamel, you may be able to help strengthen your remaining enamel using a toothpaste that’s high in certain minerals.
If you aren’t seeing the dentist regularly, you could be at a greater risk of developing decay or damage. At Creekside Dentistry, we believe that prevention is key, and we work hard to provide high-quality dental cleanings to all of our patients. Call us today at 903-225-8031 to schedule your first cleaning and take control of your oral health.