3 Important Reasons To Get Your Teeth Cleaned

As a way to prevent problems with your teeth, dentists recommend brushing them everyday. Another important way to avoid problems down the road is getting your teeth cleaned. Here are three important reasons for getting your teeth cleaned on a regular basis.

Prevent Tooth Loss

Studies show that the primary cause for tooth loss in adults is periodontal disease, otherwise known as gum disease or gingivitis. This type of infection in the gums affects the bone and the tissue that support the teeth.

When the gum tissue is healthy, it tightly fits around the tooth. When the gums get inflamed, they begin to recede and pull away from the tooth. This allows more room for bacteria and it can eventually destroy the bone and tissue around the tooth. If left untreated, the tooth can fall out or it will need to be removed.

Decrease Chances of Heart Disease

According to some medical experts, there has been evidence to suggest that periodontal disease attributes to negative health effects of the heart. One study shows that higher levels of bacteria from the mouth can increase the chances of arteries to become clogged and then hardened. Known as atherosclerosis, this hardening of the artery often leads to stroke.

Some people who have congenital heart defects or who have had valve replacements need to be especially diligent when it comes to oral health. In these patients, bacteria from the mouth can cause a condition called infective endocarditis. Some dental procedures, including cleanings, may require them to take antibiotics to further protect their heart.

Keep Bad Breath at Bay

Some researchers think that 90 percent of all bad breath is caused by bacteria from diseased gums traveling to other parts of the mouth, including the tongue. For this reason, some people brush their tongue to get rid of bad breath. Others use mouthwash to help kill the bacteria. These methods are usually not enough, however, and they can end up masking the root problem. Oftentimes dental cleanings are the only way to reverse gum disease, especially in its earliest stages.

Keeping up with your routine dental cleaning can drastically reduce the instances of gum disease. When the chances for gum disease decreases, so do the chances of losing teeth, getting heart disease, and instances of bad breath. Some medical experts say dental cleanings need only be done once a year unless there is a history of gum disease. Your dentist, such as Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, can tell you what is recommended for you.