Benefits of Professional Teeth Cleaning vs. At-Home Care

If you’ve been taking great care of your oral health — diligently brushing at least twice a day and flossing regularly — you might be thinking about skipping your upcoming dental visit. This is especially tempting if you’re not experiencing any tooth pain or visibly noticing any issues with your smile. However, there are consequences that come from relying solely on your at-home regimen and plenty of reasons to stick with that upcoming appointment.

Your Dentist’s Toothbrush Isn’t Like Yours

During a professional dental cleaning, your hygienist uses specialized instruments that are far more effective than any toothbrush, even electric ones. These tools are designed to remove plaque buildup and hardened tartar that cannot be eliminated at home. They also clean below the gum line to help prevent gum disease. As a general rule, tartar can only be removed by a hygienist or dentist.

Detect Gum Disease Early

Gum disease and other serious oral health issues often go undetected until pain and inflammation tip you off that you have an issue. However, regular visits to your dentist can help identify gum disease and other oral health issues early, easing the treatment plan and lessening your discomfort. At every visit, your hygienist and dentist aren’t just cleaning — they are giving you a visual examination and looking for any lurking issues.

You’re Getting a Mouth Cancer Screening

While your dentist might not say it directly, part of their process during a routine visit is to look for any signs of mouth cancer. They’re looking for mouth sores that aren’t healing, growths or lumps inside the mouth, or white or reddish patches inside the mouth. Mouth cancer can occur on the lips, gums, tongue, inner cheek lining, roof of the mouth, and under the tongue. Some of these areas aren’t visible in your mirror, making it difficult to see any early warning signs. Those regular trips to your dentist just might save your life.

Opportunity for Good Advice

A dental visit may lead to recommendations you did not realize you needed. For example, your hygienist or dentist may notice areas you are missing while brushing and suggest a different toothbrush or an improved brushing technique. If your teeth have lost their bright, white appearance, they can guide you through safe and effective whitening options and advise you on which over-the-counter products to avoid.

If you have additional questions about the value of dental cleanings versus at-home care, contact us.