432 West Foothill Blvd. Glendora, CA 91741
How Professional Cleanings Help Prevent Gum Disease
A smile isn’t only measured by teeth but by the health of your gums as well. Healthy gums are essential to your teeth because they form the base for them, which can help prevent future dental complications, such as gum disease. Though many do not realize it, dental cleanings are extremely essential to healthy gums. Gum disease is dangerous and can lead to tooth loss and other issues, such as bad breath.
Maintaining healthy gums is essential, which is why dental exams and cleanings in Glendora are highly beneficial. In this blog, we’re going to explore how professional dental cleanings help fight gum disease. For those who question why dental cleanings are important, how often they should be performed, and whether they benefit oral health, this is for you!
What Is Gum Disease?
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums that occurs when bacteria form a sticky film of bacteria known asplaqueon your teeth. If there are too many of these bacteria, the gums may become swollen and red, and they may even bleed when brushing. This type of gum disease is called gingivitis.
Gingivitis can be reversed with proper dental care, but if left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis. Periodontitis is a form of gum disease that can damage the tissues around your teeth and supporting structures. Scheduling regular dental exams & cleanings in Glendora can help prevent these issues and reduce the need for more invasive procedures in the future.
What Causes Gum Disease?
Most gum disease is caused by neglecting your teeth. Left on teeth long enough, plaque will become tartar, and can be removed only by a dentist or hygienist. This accumulation of plaque causes gum inflammation and eventually an infection in your gums, resulting in gum disease.
How Professional Cleanings Help Prevent Gum Disease?
A dentist or hygienist can help prevent gum disease by providing regular professional cleanings. Regular professional cleanings aid in gum disease prevention by:
1. Removing Plaque And Tartar
Plaque constantly forms around your teeth. It can be removed by your daily flossing and brushing, but tartar cannot be removed this way. A dental hygienist or dentist will use scalers to remove tartar around and under the gumline; this process will rid the mouth of harmful bacteria that contribute to gum disease.
2. Preventing Inflammation Of The Gums
If left on the teeth for too long, plaque can cause your gums to become inflamed and infected (this is the first sign of gum disease). Regular cleaning can help prevent your gums from becoming inflamed or infected. This keeps them clean and free of bacteria, preventing disease.
3. Removing Surface Stains And Bacteria
Along with plaque and tartar, this will remove surface stains from the teeth. This is a cosmetic issue, but cleaning off the stains prevents plaque from sticking to your teeth. The healthier the teeth are, the cleaner the mouth is, helping prevent disease.
4. Spotting Problems Early On
Your dentist or hygienist will check your gums while you are being cleaned for signs of cavities, gum disease or any other dental problems. Finding these things early on will help to cure or fix it faster.
Why Regular Cleanings Matter?
Many people mistakenly believe that all you need to maintain the health of your teeth and gums is to brush and floss, but professional cleanings are a critical component of proper oral hygiene. Here are the top reasons:
1. At-Home Care Can’t Remove Tartar
Although brushing and flossing twice a day are beneficial, they can only remove tartar above the gumline. Dentists and dental hygienists use special tools to effectively remove below-the-gumline tartar and prevent further development of gum disease.
2. Gum Disease Often Starts Without Symptoms
For the most part, gum disease is painless and symptomless in the earliest stages. Without professional cleanings, plaque and tartar can damage the gums below the gumline without you realizing it until the problem has escalated. Dental cleanings can uncover and prevent these more serious problems.
3. A Healthy Smile Requires Professional Care
It’s not easy to keep your smile healthy unless you make regular dental exams and cleanings in Glendora a priority. Regular checkups and cleanings can help you prevent tooth loss and preserve your beautiful smile for the years to come.
When Should You Have Your Dental Cleanings?
Generally, it is recommended that you have cleanings performed every six months. However, depending on your current dental status and medical history, your dentist may prescribe more frequent dental cleanings. For instance, if you have a periodontal history or some other conditions such as diabetes and smoking, your dentist may prescribe more frequent cleanings and checkups.
You may need to schedule your dental cleaning if you notice the following symptoms:
- Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing.
- Chronic halitosis.
- Red, swollen, or receding gums.
- Pain while you are chewing and biting.
How to Maintain Healthy Gums Between Professional Cleanings
In addition to professional dental cleanings, you also have to take care of your gums at home.
- Brush your teeth twice a day: Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste. Brush for at least 2 minutes to remove plaque buildup from the surfaces and gum lines of your teeth.
- Floss daily: Daily flossing removes plaque and food particles from between your teeth, where a toothbrush cannot reach.
- Rinse your mouth with mouthwash: A non-alcohol-based antimicrobial mouthwash may also help kill bacteria and keep your breath fresh.
- Avoid smoking: Smoking is one of the biggest risk factors associated with the development of periodontal disease, as it weakens your body’s immune system, which hinders the healing of your gums. If you do smoke, try to quit for the better health of your gums.
- Healthy Eating habits: A healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals may also promote gum health. Focus on consuming foods rich in Fiber, Vitamin C, and Calcium, as they can significantly benefit your gum health.
Healthy Gums Need Regular Cleaning
Healthy gums are integral to a healthy mouth. Routine cleanings are important for keeping gums healthy and preventing gum disease by eliminating harmful bacteria. If your gums haven’t been cleaned in a while, make your next dental exam & cleaning in Glendora now.
Glendora Healthy Smiles is ready to help you keep your smile healthy. Call us today to schedule your next cleaning to keep your gums healthy!
Questions People Ask About Professional Cleanings
How often should I get a dental cleaning?
Most people should get a professional cleaning every six months. However, if you have gum disease or other concerns, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.
Is a dental cleaning painful?
Dental cleanings are typically painless. However, if you have sensitive gums or tartar buildup, you may feel some discomfort during the procedure.
Can I prevent gum disease at home?
Good oral hygiene at home, including brushing twice a day and flossing daily, can help prevent gum disease. However, regular professional cleanings are essential for optimal gum health.
What are the early signs of gum disease?
Early signs of gum disease include bleeding gums when brushing or flossing, swollen or red gums, persistent bad breath, and gum recession. See your dentist if you notice any of these symptoms.
Why is flossing important for gum health?
Flossing removes plaque and food particles between your teeth and under the gumline. This helps prevent gum disease by reducing plaque buildup that brushing alone can’t reach.
Can gum disease lead to tooth loss?
Yes, if left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss. It damages the tissues and bones that support your teeth, which can cause them to loosen or fall out.
