Good oral hygiene is essential not only for your smile but your general health as well. Periodontal disease and gum infection lead to low birth weight, stroke, and heart disease. Consistent dental exams and professional teeth cleaning can prevent these and many other health problems.

However, most people fear teeth cleaning because of the strange noises, prodding, and jaw discomfort. The truth is that for most people, teeth cleaning is a painless and simple procedure. Regular professional dental exams can keep you healthier and look better.

Here are more of the things that a dental cleaning can do for you.

Avoid cavities

The whitish film that builds up on your teeth or plaque is the leading cause of tooth decay. This acidic substance corrodes the tooth enamel and if left untreated, it can lead to cavities. Professional teeth cleaning, brushing and flossing can remove plaque.

Prevent tooth loss

Gum disease which begins with the accumulation of 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 come loose and fall out.

Luckily, with regular teeth cleaning and good oral hygiene habits, the chances of this happening are less.

Renew your smile

Using tobacco, drinking wine, tea and coffee can stain your teeth. A professional teeth cleaning can eliminate built-up stains and leave you with newly polished teeth, resulting in a brighter and whiter smile. Without dental cleanings, you might end up with a damaged and decayed smile.

Freshen your breath

Good oral hygiene is the best way to prevent continuous bad breath. Even if you floss and brush regularly, a teeth cleaning is the best way to keep your mouth healthy and smelling fresh.

Improve your general health

Studies indicate that there is a connection between oral and general health. Regular teeth cleaning may help reduce the risk for some medical conditions such as stroke and heart disease. Your dentist can identify many medical conditions that are life threatening during a routine oral exam.

Save money

Since dental cleanings are preventive treatments, they help you prevent and fight many serious dental issues that cost a huge amount of money to fix. If you attend your appointments, you will prevent these issues.

Get the most value from your dental benefits. Most dental plans offer low or no co-insurance for professional teeth cleanings and oral exams. If you take advantage of your benefits, you will save yourself teeth cleaning costs in the long run by helping to safeguard your oral health and potentially avoiding more extensive and expensive procedures.

You should have teeth cleaning twice annually and X-rays once a year. Still, depending on what your dentist notices in your mouth, they might carry out other exams during the visit. Whether you need any extra procedures or not, the key is to continue visiting your dentist for regular Dental cleaning in order to prevent problems completely. By understanding what is going on beforehand, you will feel more at ease and probably even anticipate these appointments.