When it comes to having your dental hygiene visit, have you ever thought about it as just a simple cleaning? It is easy to think about skipping your dental cleaning appointment if you think about it as just a cleaning. However, a dental hygiene appointment is much more than just a teeth cleaning. Even though you brush and floss regularly, learn why regular dental hygiene visits are essential to your oral health.

Why Keep Your Dental Hygiene Appointment?

Tartar Removal

Even with regular brushing and flossing, it is impossible to remove every trace of plaque in the mouth. Plaque that is not removed eventually hardens into what we call tartar or calculus. Hardened plaque cannot be removed by brushing and flossing. It can only be removed using specialized dental tools by your dental hygienist or dentist. It is vital to remove hardened plaque because it acts as a rough surface for more bacteria to attach. Bacteria in the mouth must be removed or else it leads to gum inflammation and gum disease.

 

The Systemic Link

While research is still ongoing, many studies show an increased risk of developing issues such as stroke, diabetes, heart disease, certain cancers, Alzheimer’s disease are linked with chronic gum disease. It is important to understand that oral health is connected to your overall health.

Control Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease is an advanced form of gum disease that causes the breakdown of bone that supports teeth in the mouth. It is especially important for patients with periodontal disease to see their dental professional regularly to monitor periodontal disease. Having periodontal disease makes it harder to keep the mouth clean due to issues such as periodontal pockets. Regular dental cleanings keep your mouth clean and prevent advancement of further damage from periodontal disease.

Oral Cancer Screening

While there are things you can do to monitor your oral health at home, your dental professional is able to check your mouth for any abnormalities thoroughly.

If it has been a while since your last dental hygiene appointment, contact us now to schedule your visit.