Many people do not realize just how important
good oral hygiene is, not only for one's looks but also for one's overall
health and well-being. Poor oral hygiene can lead to both dental problems
such as gum disease and infection and other medical problems such as bone loss,
heart disease, strokes and more.
Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can help
to prevent these issues from occurring.
It’s important to realize that even if you have good oral hygiene
practices at home, you still need professional teeth cleaning in order to
remove plaque build-up that is not removed by brushing alone.
Here are ten important reasons to ensure you
have your teeth professionally cleaned:
1. Screening for Oral Cancer
According to the Oral Cancer Foundation, a national non-profit public service entity, approximately 42,000 people in the U.S. will be newly diagnosed with oral cancer in 2013. According to Canadian Cancer Society statistics, approximately 4000 Canadians were diagnosed with oral cancer in Canada (which correlates well with the U.S. numbers as the Canadian population is approximately one tenth that of the U.S.). When you have a dental cleaning you are also being screened for oral cancer which generally speaking highly curable if caught early.2. Preventing Gum Disease
Periodontal disease, or ‘gum is usually caused by bacteria from plaque and tartar build-up over time. There are other factors that can potentially cause gum disease including the use of tobacco, clenching or grinding of the teeth, some medications and genetic factors.
Gingivitus is the name given to the beginning
stage of gum disease and it often goes undetected. This stage of the disease is, generally
speaking, reversible.
Periodontitis is the stage of gum disease that
follows gingivitis. There are many levels of periodontitis but a common outcome
is chronic inflammatory response, a condition in which the body breaks down
bone and tissue in the infected areas of the mouth. This then leads to bone loss and an increased chance of tooth loss.
In addition to professional teeth cleanings bi-annually, regular brushing and flossing are key preventive measures to avoid gum disease.
In addition to professional teeth cleanings bi-annually, regular brushing and flossing are key preventive measures to avoid gum disease.