Because of time, expense, and a fear of the dentist, sometimes patients are tempted to skip a dental cleaning or two. We would like to share a few reasons why skipping dental cleanings is not a good idea and can put your health at risk.
Bacteria and Infection
Bacteria begin to form within minutes after eating. Sure, you can brush and floss your teeth, but do you do this after every meal or beverage? If the answer is yes, great work! Unfortunately, however, your efforts may still not be 100 percent effective. Your toothbrush and floss cannot reach every area of your teeth and gums. It is a good method to combat serious infections and prevent decay, but regular dental cleanings give you a clean slate every time by removing all tartar and bacteria with the use of special instruments.
Without regular dental cleanings, tartar that forms can cause infection and harbor bacteria. Research shows that gum disease can lead to heart problems and complications with diabetes, in addition to causing tooth loss.
Bad Breath
The alarming thing about bad breath is that we are rarely aware of our own. We are not referring to onion or garlic smells after a delicious meal or the smell of coffee. The bacteria that cause gum disease have a distinct unpleasant odor that may offend people around you, negatively impact your intimacy, and cause people to stay away.
When you come in for a dental cleaning in our St. Paul, MN dental office, our hygienists will discuss any “bad breath issues” and provide an effective way to address them. With regular home care and dental cleanings, your breath should remain fresh and your gums should remain healthy.
Preventive Dentistry in St. Paul
The best care that we can give to our patients is the power to prevent dental problems. Regular dental exams and professional cleanings give us an opportunity to monitor your teeth and gums. When we see you at least twice per year, we can often head off any conditions before they cause serious damage. Decay, gum disease, and infections are easier to treat when we catch them early.
If it is time for your next dental cleaning and you are in the St. Paul, MN area, we invite you Highgrove Dental Care. We will never make you feel bad about missing a few appointments; instead, we will help you develop effective dental habits that will get you back on track with a healthy smile.