The Truth about Dental Cleaning

We are all advised to practice good oral hygiene on a daily basis. This includes brushing at least two times a day and flossing before bed. In addition to your daily habits, though, it is also beneficial to have a dental cleaning performed by your Glendale dentist at least once or twice a year. In fact, some patients gain the greatest benefit from quarterly dental cleanings.

Here are a few of the objectives of the standard dental cleaning conducted in our Glendale office:

Dental cleaning prevents bad breath

Halitosis is often attributed to a dental problem rather than an issue with food or general health. Persistent bad breath creates social anxiety and other problems, but it doesn't have to. Your hygienist performs a thorough cleaning that removes plaque and tartar from hard-to-reach places. Also, during your routine cleaning, you can discuss ways to improve home care to support fresh breath all day long.

Ward off stains

Dental cleanings are not intended to whiten severely stained teeth. This routine care does, however, polish the surface of enamel to create a brighter, shinier exterior. Many of the stains that sit on the outermost layer of enamel can be lifted slightly during a routine cleaning. That means your investment into professional teeth whitening will go farther!

Gum disease prevention with dental cleaning

There are several levels of teeth cleaning that may be conducted to address gum disease. The best approach is to prevent infection altogether by obtaining a dental cleaning at least twice a year in our Glendale office. Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease, and this early condition can be successfully treated, and damage reversed, with an appropriate cleaning. This is important because more advanced stages of gum disease require more frequent care, and deeper cleanings that target bacteria beneath the gum line. With gum disease being a leading cause of adult tooth loss, patients see the value in preventive care.

Dental cleaning supports general health

Dental conditions like gum disease, due to their chronic nature, have been associated with a number of health conditions, including cardiovascular disease and stroke. The inflammation that persists inside the mouth causes C-reactive protein in the blood to rise. This elevation is a marker for inflammatory conditions throughout the body, and for cardiac events.

Is it time for your dental cleaning? Call our Glendale office at (818) 545-8923.