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Why Do I Need Dental Cleanings If I Brush and Floss Twice a Day?

Why Do I Need Dental Cleanings If I Brush and Floss Twice a Day?

About one-third of adults skip their six-month dental cleanings. But skipped dental cleanings can mean cavities, gum disease, bad breath (yikes), and even big health problems. The good news? These cleanings are quick, painless, and cheaper than a root canal. 

If you haven’t professionally cleaned your teeth in the last six months, schedule an appointment at Winnie Nguyen, DDS, and her Ridge Commons Family Dentistry staff today. Your mouth (and wallet) will thank you.

Why professional teeth cleanings matter

The reasons to schedule professional dental cleanings (even if you brush and floss twice daily) are endless and include:

Less tartar and plaque

Professional teeth cleanings can eliminate more tartar and plaque than at-home brushing alone, as the Ridge Commons Family Dentistry experts have specialized dental tools that remove debris from hard-to-reach areas. 

Deeper dental cleaning

If you have gum disease or severe plaque buildup, deep dental cleanings can eliminate debris and bacteria from your gum line and even underneath, to prevent gum disease from worsening and jaw bone loss.

Reduced risk of cavities and other dental problems

Attending routine dental cleanings at Ridge Commons Family Dentistry can reduce your risk of tooth decay and the need for crowns, bridges, or dental fillings. If you opt for preventive sealants after getting your cleaning, this treatment lessens your risk of cavities in the permanent molars by about 80%.

Early disease detection

Not all dental problems are apparent, at least not right away. During dental cleanings and exams at Ridge Commons Family Dentistry, the specialists can detect minor dental issues before they become more severe (and costly).

Bad breath prevention

There’s no doubt - tartar and plaque buildup can lead to bad breath. Routine dental cleanings that eliminate microbes and buildup in hard-to-reach areas between your teeth or under your gum line can keep halitosis at bay. 

Enhanced whole-body health

Maintaining good oral hygiene and dental health is linked to improved overall health and well-being, including a lower risk of stroke, heart disease, dementia, and other chronic conditions. 

Cost savings

Preventive dental cleanings can save you time and money in the long run. Scheduling dental cleanings every six months is a form of preventive care often covered by dental insurance companies and can reduce your risk of needing costly procedures down the road. 

How often to schedule professional dental cleanings

You should schedule dental cleanings every six months, which most dental insurance providers cover. However, some individuals may need more frequent dental cleanings, particularly those prone to cavities or gum disease. 

Check in with Dr. Nguyen to determine how often to schedule your cleanings. Contact Ridge Commons Family Dentistry anytime you have tooth pain, tooth damage, discoloration, or signs of gum disease. 

Our practice also offers teeth whitening, dentures, Invisalign®, dental implants, composite bonding, smile makeovers, and more to create flawless results. 

Ready to book your next professional teeth cleaning? Contact us today at our McKinney, Texas, office by phone or use the online appointment scheduler.

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