What goals have you set for 2020? For many people, “spend more time with the family” and “exercise more” might top the list, but few people think to make a resolution to “protect oral health.” And yet, making such a pledge and acting on it could mean the difference between a brilliant smile and a mouth full of cavities. Have you scheduled a teeth cleaning in Lacey yet? Read on to learn why making that appointment could be one of the best decisions you make this year.
Why Should You Schedule a Teeth Cleaning?
While some patients think they can keep their mouths clean simply by brushing and flossing on their own, the American Dental Association recommends at least two oral hygiene appointments with your dentist every year. There are a few reasons why these visits are so important:
- Your mouth has all kinds of hard-to-reach spaces that you could be missing with your toothbrush. Plaque could be building up, and you may not even realize it until it’s too late.
- If any plaque in your mouth has hardened and turned into tartar, you can no longer remove it without a dentist’s help.
- During a dental checkup in Lacey, your dentist might see warning signs of tooth decay and gum disease. These oral health issues are much simpler to treat in their earliest stages.
- Oral cancer screenings, which give you a chance to address a potentially deadly condition before it becomes too advanced, are part of regular dental checkups.
In general, you’ll find that you suffer from much fewer oral health issues (as well as require fewer costly dental procedures) by having a dental cleaning done every six months or so.
What Can I Expect During a Teeth Cleaning?
The first step is to look for areas where plaque has built up or the gums have become inflamed; that way, you’ll know which spots in your mouth you’ll need to pay closer attention to in the future. Then, using a tool called a scaler, your dentist will scrape away the plaque and tartar that has built up between your teeth and around the gum line. After that, they’ll use a high-powered electric toothbrush and a gritty toothpaste to remove any bacteria or food particles left over. This is followed by a thorough flossing. The final step is to polish the tooth and smooth the surface.
If it has been more than six months since your last dental appointment, you’ll definitely want to schedule your next visit as early as possible. Call your dentist today to set up your appointment; this basic step will let you start off the new year (and hopefully greet the next one) with a bright, healthy smile!
About the Practice
Here at Peterson & Cammack Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we provide your entire family with a full range of quality dental services. Of course, that includes top-notch teeth cleanings and other preventive services meant to keep your teeth safe. To schedule your first cleaning and checkup for the new year, visit our website or call (360) 459-4420.