Why Are Regular Dental Cleanings Important for the Whole Family?

If you have good oral hygiene habits and don't seem to be experiencing any issues with your teeth, it may be difficult to see the value of a dental cleaning twice a year. With everyone's busy lifestyles, regular dental cleanings and exams can take a backseat. However, forgoing routine dental visits can have severe consequences for your teeth and gums, and overall health. There are several reasons to keep you and your family committed to regular dental cleanings and checkups. Read on to learn more from Dr. Camelia Cooper and her team at Sweet Tooth Dental Loft in Frisco, TX about how simple preventive dentistry can benefit your family's oral health and protect their smiles.

What happens during a routine dental checkup?

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that children and adults visit their family dentist every six months for regular teeth cleanings and oral checkups. At Sweet Tooth Dental Loft, a routine prophylaxis appointment usually takes about an hour and will involve the following:

• Dental cleaning and polish
• Removal of any tartar and plaque buildup (oral prophylaxis)
• Dental exam checking for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and any misalignment issues
• Oral cancer screening
• Fluoride treatment (when needed)

Are routine preventive cleanings important?

Without routine dental cleanings, your or your family's dental health can quickly go downhill – plaque and tartar buildup can lead to tooth decay, and even tooth loss. Preventive dentistry is the best way to catch potential oral health issues before it's too late. Routine dental cleanings remove any tooth discoloration, plaque, and tartar deposits, and give patients fresher breath. By removing harmful bacteria, you also reduce the risk of oral problems, like cavities or gum disease. Even if you develop these dental health issues, keeping up with scheduled routine visits reduces the risk of extensive damage and helps preserve your smile.

What do dental cleanings mean to your oral health?

Dental cleanings are routine preventive oral care that often is covered by most dental insurance plans. During a cleaning, special dental instruments are used to remove soft plaque and tartar (hard plaque) from the teeth. It also removes harmful bacteria from the mouth for fresher breath. Even if cavities or other dental concerns develop, keeping up with your dental cleanings as recommended can save you money with more extensive procedures that may be needed in the future. It is also a good time to receive personalized oral hygiene instructions. At Sweet Tooth Dental Loft, Dr. Cooper will tailor homecare instructions based on your individual needs so you and your family can learn about what areas may benefit from more attention on a daily basis.

Do you need a routine dental checkup in Frisco, TX?

The secret to maintaining and achieving a healthy smile begins with routine dental cleanings. Preventive dental care with regular exams and professional cleanings is instrumental in sustaining good dental and overall health. At Sweet Tooth Dental Loft, Dr. Camelia Cooper and her team offer high-quality and experienced dental care for Frisco, TX patients. If you or one of your family members is due for a preventive cleaning and dental check-up, contact Sweet Tooth Dental Loft in Frisco, TX. One of our helpful team members will schedule your appointment with Dr. Camelia Cooper.