Many people only visit their dentist when they feel pain or discomfort in their teeth and gums. Today our Toronto dentists explain why routine appointments are important even when you're not experiencing a dental issue.
Even if you have good at-home dental practices and are not experiencing any pain or dental abnormalities, we still recommend that you visit us every 6 months for a professional cleaning and dental exam.
Good brushing and flossing habits are certainly important, but there are tangible benefits to your dental health from regular visits for a professional cleaning.
Why Schedule Professional Dental Cleanings?
There are a number of reasons to book regular professional dental cleanings, including:
Removing plaque and tartar buildup
No matter how well you brush at home, there are likely some hard-to-reach places on your teeth where plaque has an easier time settling and accumulating. If not removed, plaque can begin hardening into a sticky substance known as tartar in just 24 hours. Our dental hygienists can remove tartar once it has formed, and they'll have no trouble reaching the plaque that you can't reach at home.
Preventing oral health problems
Preventive dentistry is the best tool that dentists have in the fight against oral disease. Visiting your dentist at least every six months for a professional cleaning will help keep gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health diseases at bay. Keeping your teeth and gums healthy means that you will be at a lower risk of tooth loss later on in life.
Correcting oral health problems early
After prevention, catching oral health problems early is the next best thing for ensuring speedy and effective treatment. When you visit your dentist they may be able to spot issues before they become visible or noticeable to you.
In the early stages, gum disease and tooth decay can be reversed if the proper steps are taken. Treatment is not only easier but also a lot more affordable early on.
Your dentist will also take the time to screen you for oral cancer, which typically responds much better to early treatment.
Maintaining a healthy smile
Teeth can quickly become discoloured from too much plaque and tartar buildup. By going for regular dental cleaning, you might get to enjoy a brighter and whiter smile on top of a healthier one. Your dentist and hygienist will also be able to give you personalized pointers on how to keep your teeth whiter, and they may suggest cosmetic dental treatments for you if this is something you're interested in.