The Benefits of Routine Exams and Cleanings

Oral diseases, though highly preventable, affect close to 3.5 billion people around the world. Cavities of permanent teeth are the most common condition people face. About two billion people suffer from caries of permanent teeth.

Oral diseases can affect people throughout their lifetime, too. They can cause discomfort, pain, disfigurement, and in some cases, death.

There are a few reasons you might develop an oral disease, including poor oral hygiene. With regular dental cleanings, however, you can avoid oral diseases and other health problems. Here are a few ways regular dental exams and cleanings can benefit your life. 

Avoid Cavities

Brushing and flossing every day can help remove food particles that might otherwise linger between your teeth. When left unattended, these food particles can mix with bacteria. As a result, cavities might form. 

With routine dental exams and cleanings, you can spot issues with your at-home oral health care routine. Then, you can make changes before a cavity can form. Your hygienist and dentist can ensure your teeth are thoroughly cleaned, too.

Otherwise, those food particles can lead to plaque formation.

Plaque is a clear, sticky substance that sticks to and between your teeth. It can produce acid, which is then able to erode your protective tooth enamel.

Your enamel usually guards your teeth against potential cavities and diseases. 

When left unattended, plaque can harden into tartar. You'll need to visit your dentist in Roseville, CA to have tartar professionally removed.

Otherwise, a cavity can form and create holes in your teeth. A cavity could even destroy a tooth when left untreated for too long.

Cavities can also increase your risk of other health issues. For example, you might develop an infection or tooth abscess. Infections can enter your bloodstream as well, which could prove life-threatening.

Keep an eye out for signs you have a cavity, including:

• A pit or hole in a tooth
• Lingering sensitivity to hot or cold foods/beverages
• A lasting toothache
• Sensitivity to sweets
• Brown, white, or black staining

Visit your dentist every six months to keep plaque and tartar at bay.

Protect Your Teeth

Visiting your dentist can help you discover new ways to improve your oral hygiene. Then, you can determine the best way to protect your teeth with preventive techniques.

You shouldn't have to wait for an issue to develop to seek help. Instead, learn how to protect your oral health. For example, your dentist might recommend fluoride or sealants.

They can also discuss your potential risk of oral health issues in the future. For example, perhaps a problem like gingivitis runs in the family. Your dentist can help you determine which preventive measures to take. 

Safeguard Your Gums

When food particles linger in your mouth, plaque and tartar can also impact your gums. You could develop gum disease, which causes symptoms that include:

• Loose teeth
• Spaces between teeth
• Bad breath
• Tender gums
• Gums that bleed easily
• Pain when chewing
• A change in how teeth fit together
• Receding gum lines
• Pus between teeth and gums
• Swollen or puffy gums
• Gyms that bleed when you brush or floss
• The loss of teeth

Gum disease could impact the appearance of your smile or cause you to lose teeth. Don't neglect to schedule regular dental cleanings. With dental exams, you can spot the initial signs of gingivitis before it develops into advanced stages. 

Dodge Disease

Routine dental exams and cleanings can help you avoid an oral health disease in the future. For example, bacteria in your mouth can cause inflammation or an infection. Remember, an infection could spread into your bloodstream.

You could develop heart disease. Your arteries could get clogged as bacteria travels from your teeth to your heart, too. Your risk of a stroke, arthritis, or diabetes can increase as well. 

Freshen Your Breath

Issues with your teeth and gums could impact your breath. If the bacteria in your mouth are causing bad breath, talk to your dentist. They can help you determine the best course of action.

Brighten Your Smile

If you're unhappy with the appearance of your smile, talk to your dentist. Routine cleanings can keep bacteria at bay. Otherwise, bacteria can cause discoloration and yellowing.

Everything from the foods you eat to your favorite cup of coffee can impact the appearance of your smile. If you're unhappy, ask your dentist about teeth whitening options. 

Save Money

Routine dental exams can save you money in the long run.

Otherwise, your risk of complications like cavities and gum disease can increase. You'll need to pay for a more expensive treatment plan if you develop oral health issues. Instead, you can avoid those problems with preventative action.

With regular dental cleanings, you can make improvements to your oral health now, before complications develop

When to See Your Dentist More Often

Sometimes, you need to schedule regular dental cleanings more than once or twice a year. Make sure to visit your dentist to develop your treatment plan. For example, they might recommend appointments more often if:

• Your teeth stain easily
• You find it difficult to floss
• Your dental or orthodontic appliances aren't working
• You develop cavities easily
• You develop plaque quickly



You can develop a customized treatment plan based on your needs. Then, you can protect your teeth and oral health with preventative action. 

Schedule Dental Exams With Your Dentist in Roseville, CA

Don't neglect your oral health this year. Instead, make sure to schedule routine dental exams with your dentist in Roseville, CA. Routine appointments can protect your teeth for years to come. 

With their help, you can develop a preventive oral health care plan based on your unique needs.

Ready for your next exam? We can't wait to see you.

Contact us today to get started.