The Importance of Dental Cleanings

If you’re struggling to keep up with all of life’s demands, you’re not alone. And it’s completely understandable to try and find ways to cut corners to simplify everyday life. But, if the cutting involves your oral health, this could cause more trouble in the long run.

Research shows that only 64% of adults aged 18 and older have had a dental exam or cleaning within the past year, even though these routine visits play a major role in protecting a person’s oral health.

Robert A. Scherrer, DMD, of Advanced Dental Care of Ridgewood in Ridgewood, New Jersey, wants to help patients preserve their healthy, happy smiles. And professional dental cleanings can make that a reality. 

Here’s why Dr. Scherrer recommends regular dental cleanings, even if you practice great oral hygiene at home.

Remove plaque

If you already brush and floss at home, congratulations! That’s your first line of defense against plaque buildup. However, even the most diligent self-care can leave plaque behind.

Your mouth is full of countless nooks and crannies that provide the perfect places for plaque to hide. And this clear, sticky substance is the leading cause of tooth decay, and it erodes the enamel on your teeth, putting you at risk for cavities.

And it doesn’t stop there.

When ignored, plaque can get below your gum line, increasing your chances for a serious soft tissue infection known as gum disease. When gum disease sets in, it can destroy the crucial structures in your mouth that support your teeth and leave you vulnerable to tooth loss.

Fight stubborn staining

Even if you brush and floss regularly, your teeth can get stained, discolored, and lose their luster.

While your teeth may be strong, they’re susceptible to staining, and it can happen in the most harmless of ways. In fact, if you enjoy a morning cup of coffee or tea, you’ve already exposed yourself to common staining products. Others include:

• Red wine
• Berries and fruit juices
• Dark colas
• Sports and energy drinks
• Soy sauce and balsamic vinegar
• Tomato-based sauces
• Sweets and candy

Tobacco products can also cause significant staining, whether you use pipes, cigarettes, cigars, or chewing tobacco.

Keep your whole body healthier

We know what you’re thinking: How can a professional cleaning make my body healthier? The answer is simple: Less bacteria in your mouth means less bacteria in your body.

People often overlook that the mouth is an entry point to your entire system. So, what happens in your mouth affects your entire body. If you have unchecked bacteria thriving in your mouth, it’s going to enter your bloodstream and circulate throughout your system, increasing your chances for health problems, such as:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Endocarditis (heart infection)
• Respiratory illnesses, including pneumonia
• Pregnancy complications, such as premature delivery and low birth weight

Similarly, some health conditions can also negatively impact your oral health, especially diabetes, osteoporosis, HIV/AIDS, and Alzheimer’s disease. If you have any underlying health problems, Dr. Scherrer can provide personalized guidance on how to protect your oral health moving forward.

Have you been putting off your professional cleanings? Get the care you need by calling 201-670-0670 or booking an appointment online with Advanced Dental Care of Ridgewood today.