Maintaining a bright, healthy smile requires more than just brushing and flossing at home. Regular dental cleanings in Airdrie prevent cavities and ensure long-term oral health. While daily brushing is important, dental cleanings provide a deeper, more thorough clean that protects your teeth in ways your toothbrush just can’t.
Whether you’re due for a cleaning or curious about how it benefits your family’s dental well-being, this article will cover everything you need to know about how regular professional cleanings help prevent cavities and keep your smile healthy for years to come.
Why Are Dental Cleanings So Important?
While daily brushing and flossing are crucial for keeping plaque at bay, professional cleanings go a step further in removing buildup from hard-to-reach places in your mouth. Plaque that isn’t removed eventually hardens into tartar, a more stubborn substance that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
During a dental cleaning, a hygienist uses specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar from areas that might be missed during your regular oral care routine. This process helps prevent cavities and lowers your risk for gum disease and other oral health issues.
How Dental Cleanings Help Prevent Cavities
Cavities form when plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, combines with sugars from the food you eat, producing acids that erode tooth enamel. Over time, this erosion creates holes in your teeth—better known as cavities. Regular dental cleanings reduce the risk of cavities by:
- Removing Plaque and Tartar – Even with excellent oral care habits, cleaning every nook and cranny of your teeth is difficult. Professional cleanings ensure that plaque and tartar are thoroughly removed, preventing the acid attacks that lead to cavities.
- Strengthening Your Teeth – During your cleaning, the dentist or hygienist may apply a fluoride treatment. Fluoride is a natural mineral that helps strengthen enamel, making your teeth more resistant to decay. This extra protection is particularly beneficial for children whose teeth are still developing but also helps adults maintain strong enamel.
- Early Detection of Dental Issues – Regular cleanings allow your dentist to monitor your teeth and gums’ health closely. They can detect early signs of cavities, gum disease, and other oral health problems before they worsen, helping you avoid more extensive and costly treatments down the road.
How Often Should You Schedule a Dental Cleaning?
For most people, a dental cleaning every six months is recommended. However, depending on your oral health, one of our dentists may suggest more frequent visits. People at a higher risk for cavities, such as those with dry mouth, a history of cavities, or gum disease, might need cleanings every three to four months.
Caring for Your Teeth Between Cleanings
Dental cleanings are an important part of your oral care routine, but taking good care of your teeth at home is just as crucial. Here’s how to keep your smile cavity-free between appointments:
- Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
- Floss daily to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth.
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks, as sugar fuels the bacteria that cause cavities.
- Drink plenty of water, especially if you live in a dry climate or experience dry mouth, to help wash away food particles and neutralize acids.
Dental Cleaning & Check-Ups in Airdrie
Attending regular dental exams and cleanings is essential for maintaining your oral health.
Our team at Airdrie 8th Street Dental are delighted to welcome patients of all ages and provide everyone with comprehensive dental care, including regular dental cleaning and check-ups. Our team of dental professionals is committed to creating a friendly, gentle, and comfortable atmosphere for every patient because visiting the dentist can and should be a positive experience.
We look forward to seeing you soon!
