Aspire Dental | February 24, 2021
Tooth decay is the public enemy #1 in the dental world. This condition affects both children and adults and demands attention. Statistics back this up: 90 percent of adults over age 20 and 78 percent of children ages 17 or younger have had at least one cavity in their lifetime. Maintaining oral health through professional teeth cleanings is essential for preventing tooth decay and achieving a bright, healthy smile.
The Importance of Regular Dental Visits
At the office of Aspire Dental, our team of skilled professionals is here for you. Regular visits with us will ensure small problems can be addressed before they become big ones. We’ll educate you on what you can do at home to take good care of your teeth to keep cavities and other conditions at bay.
Professional teeth cleanings are a crucial part of these regular visits. While brushing and flossing at home are necessary, they are not enough to remove all plaque and tartar that build up on your teeth over time. Professional cleanings by qualified hygienists are more thorough, reaching areas inside your mouth that you may have missed.
Understanding Cavities and Tooth Decay
You probably know when you have a cavity before you even visit a dentist: you might experience mild or sharp pain when you bite down on something sweet, hot, or cold. You may see holes or pits in your teeth. Cavities are caused by a buildup of plaque, a sticky film that gathers inside your mouth along with bacteria that can be harmful to your teeth and gums.
Professional teeth cleanings can get to the bottom of any buildup of plaque in your teeth and gums. Removing this buildup is essential for preventing cavities and maintaining oral health. Dental sealants and fluoride treatments may be given to children to further reduce their risk of developing cavities.
Advanced Approaches to Prevent Tooth Decay
At the office of Aspire Dental, we utilize the most advanced approaches to stop the onset and progress of tooth decay. To treat a cavity, we gently and precisely remove the decay, then restore the tooth with a durable, tooth-colored dental filling, which will blend seamlessly with your smile for aesthetically pleasing results.
Benefits of Professional Teeth Cleanings
1. Thorough Plaque and Tartar Removal
While daily brushing and flossing help reduce plaque, they can’t remove all of it. Professional cleanings reach areas that are hard to clean at home, preventing the buildup of tartar, which can lead to cavities and gum disease.
2. Early Detection of Oral Health Issues
Regular dental checkups allow for early detection of oral health issues, such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. Early intervention can prevent these problems from becoming more serious and costly to treat.
3. Prevention of Gum Disease
Professional cleanings help prevent gum disease by removing plaque and tartar that can cause inflammation and infection. Healthy gums are essential for overall oral health and a bright smile.
4. Fresher Breath
Plaque buildup and food particles trapped in your teeth and gums can cause bad breath. Professional cleanings remove these odor-causing elements, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and clean.
5. Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal
Professional teeth cleanings help maintain the aesthetic appeal of your smile by removing surface stains and polishing your teeth. This leaves your teeth looking brighter and more attractive.
Tips for Maintaining Oral Health at Home
While professional cleanings are vital, maintaining good oral hygiene at home is equally important. Here are some tips to keep your teeth and gums healthy between dental visits:
- Brush Twice a Day: Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to brush your teeth for at least two minutes, twice a day.
- Floss Daily: Flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth and along the gum line where your toothbrush can’t reach.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Limit sugary and acidic foods and drinks that can contribute to tooth decay. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps wash away food particles and bacteria, promoting a healthy mouth.
- Avoid Tobacco Products: Smoking and using other tobacco products can increase your risk of gum disease and oral cancer.
Schedule Your Professional Teeth Cleaning Today
At the office of Aspire Dental, we are committed to helping you achieve and maintain a bright, healthy smile. Our compassionate and highly educated staff provide personal and superior care in all aspects of your oral health. Whether you need a routine checkup or treatment for a cavity, we are here to help.
For more information on our services or to schedule your next professional teeth cleaning, give us a call today. Let us help you keep your smile bright and healthy year-round.
