The American Dental Association recommends professional teeth cleaning twice a year, and possibly more in some situations. However, many people put off this routine visit to a Chesterfield, MO dentist for a variety of reasons. While teeth cleaning may be routine, it can be vital for oral health. Take a look at three things that change when you commit to twice-a-year oral hygiene appointments.

1. Better Gum Health

Oral hygienists use special tools and techniques to clean areas of the teeth commonly missed with regular brushing. This includes the food particles that can get trapped just below the gum line. When these particles are allowed to collect below the gumline, they harden and push the gum tissue away from your teeth. Over time, this can lead to gum shrinkage and contribute to risks of gum disease.

2. Fewer Issues with Decay

The hygienist will clean the teeth thoroughly during a teeth cleaning appointment, but fluoride treatments are also common. Cleaning the teeth is a thorough process that involves scraping off any plaque collection that can otherwise be impossible to remove with regular brushing. Fluoride treatments help strengthen the enamel. Both of these treatments can deter the risk of tooth decay.

3. Better Breath

Plaque accumulation around the gum line or in hard-to-reach areas of the mouth harbors bacteria. And, as it can go with bad bacteria accumulation, this can spur issues with halitosis (bad breath). Individuals who consistently get their teeth cleaned twice a year are far less likely to have issues with bad breath.

Schedule Your Cleaning with a Chesterfield Dentist

Has it been more than six months since you’ve visited a dentist for a cleaning in Chesterfield, MO? If so, reach out to the team at New Age Dental to schedule an appointment.