Many believe that practicing good oral hygiene at home is enough to ensure the health of their teeth and gums. That is not always the case. If you want to preserve your oral health, regular dental exams and professional teeth cleanings are also essential.
What does professional teeth cleaning involve?
During professional teeth cleaning, the dentist or hygienist ventures into hard-to-reach places in the mouth to perform deep cleaning. By utilizing a variety of tools, the dentist/hygienist can effectively remove plaque and tartar from the mouth. During teeth cleaning, the dentist can also check for signs of cavities, gum disease and other issues to provide early treatment.
Here are a few signs it is time to visit the dentist for professional teeth cleaning.
Bad breath
A common indicator that it may be time to visit the dentist is persistent bad breath. While consuming certain foods can lead to bad breath, lingering bad breath should cause concern. Bad breath that is not improved by brushing and flossing at home could be caused by bacteria and tartar build-up. This build-up can be removed during professional teeth cleaning. Persistent bad breath may also be a symptom of periodontal disease, which, if left untreated, can eventually lead to poor bone support or even tooth loss. Fortunately, professional teeth cleanings can help halt early-stage periodontal disease.
Gum issues
When there is a build-up of plaque at the gum line, it irritates the gums, leading them to appear red and swollen. Plaque build-up can also cause gums to bleed when you brush or floss. Bleeding or swollen gums are signs of periodontal disease, and it is highly recommended that professional teeth cleaning is performed at this point.
Oral sores
If you have mouth sores, it may also be time to visit your dentist. These blister-like ulcers, if left untreated, can develop into canker sores that can be quite painful. While mouth sores often heal relatively quickly, regular professional teeth cleaning can prevent them from becoming a frequently recurring feature in the mouth.
Discoloured teeth
Poor oral hygiene and habits such as smoking can contribute to teeth becoming quite stained. Regular teeth cleaning can help to keep your teeth white and bright. If teeth cleaning is not enough to brighten your smile, your dentist might recommend teeth whitening.
Six months have passed since your last cleaning
If you have not visited your dentist in the last six months, it is time to schedule an appointment for a dental exam and teeth cleaning. Dentists recommend that patients come in every six months to ensure that the health of the mouth is maintained.
Are you searching for a dentist in Surrey?
If you are due for a dental exam and professional teeth cleaning and are searching for a Surrey dentist, please contact us at Newton Village Dental Clinic.
At Newton Village Dental Clinic, we are proud to provide patients with the highest standard of dental care. We welcome patients of all ages, and our helpful and friendly staff is waiting to serve you in English, French, Vietnamese or American Sign Language.
Give us a call today to schedule an appointment!
