What are the signs that you need dental cleaning?

1. You notice a buildup of tartar
2. You smell bad breath from your mouth
3. You had a history of tooth decay
4. You experience gum pain and bleeding

Healthy teeth require consistent care. You must brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss once a day, consider mouthwash, and limit your consumption of sugary and acidic foods. But even if you do these consistently, you still need to see your dentist at least twice a year for cleanings and checkups. They can remove tartar, which cannot be removed with regular brushing, and examine your teeth for problems to prevent these issues from worsening. For this reason, it’s important to know the signs that you need dental cleaning.

During a dental cleaning or a traditional oral prophylaxis procedure, the dentist will remove the plaque and tartar on your teeth. They will use an equipment that will get rid of build-up debris gently. After the cleaning, your teeth will be polished with prophylaxis paste and a brush.

Some patients also opt to get airflow treatment along with traditional oral prophylaxis. During the treatment, your dentist will use an air polisher that uses air, water, and fine particles to gently get rid of stains and plaque in your teeth. The process is painless and comfortable. The tool can get into all surfaces of the teeth, including interproximal areas, gum pockets, and gaps.

To know if you need dental cleaning soon, keep on reading!

You Notice A Buildup Of Tartar

Plaque is the sticky film that continuously forms on your teeth, which microbes can attach to. When you don’t brush and floss regularly, plaque can harden into tartar or calculus. This can form on your teeth and gum line. Tartar allows plaque to have more space to grow and also causes problems such as cavities and gum disease.

Unlike plaque, which is colorless, tartar is easy to see. It’s often yellow, brown, green, or brownish black — which also means that it is also a cosmetic concern. Plaque can be removed by brushing, but tartar can only be removed through professional cleaning.

You Smell Bad Breath From Your Mouth

Having bad breath is not easy. Other people may avoid having intimate conversations with you. But most of the time, you might not notice that you already have it. You may be able to tell by cupping your hands over your mouth and nose and smelling your breath.

Bad breath is usually caused by not brushing and flossing regularly. Decaying food particles and bacteria can remain between teeth, which causes an unpleasant odor. Poor oral hygiene also leads to tartar, which causes gum pockets that can trap food and bacteria, which leads to bad breath. A dental cleaning can help remove the tartar that causes this problem.

You Had A History Of Tooth Decay

Tooth decay or cavities also refer to the areas on the hard surface of your teeth that are permanently damaged. Cavities develop when the acid in plaque removes minerals in your teeth, causing tiny openings or holes. Tooth decay can develop in the inner tooth material, causing more problems.

If you had a history of tooth decay, it’s recommended to schedule regular cleanings and checkups with your dentist to prevent problems. Cavities develop slowly, so you might not notice that there are symptoms until it is too late. Through regular cleanings and consistent oral hygiene, you can help keep your teeth healthy and free from decay.

You Experience Gum Pain And Bleeding

When neglected, plaque can extend below the gum line. This can cause a gum infection or gingivitis, which can cause gums to separate from the teeth. While it’s possible to have this condition without symptoms, you might notice that your gums are red, and swollen. It can also bleed when you brush or floss. You may experience pain with chewing and notice that you have more sensitive teeth.

Gingivitis is treated through a variety of methods. Your dentist will perform a deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar. You might also be given medications such as antibiotics and an antiseptic mouthwash. But if the condition is severe, you might need surgery.

Key Takeaway

Regular brushing and flossing can go a long way in preventing dental problems, but you also need professional help in keeping your teeth healthy. For instance, once plaque has hardened into tartar, it can only be removed in a dental clinic. Other than that, regular cleanings and checkups can ensure that you can keep your teeth free from cavities, gum disease, and bad breath! If you can’t remember your last cleaning, it’s time to book a checkup soon.

If you experience these signs that you need a dental cleaning, you can book a checkup with us here at Elevate Dental! Our experienced dentists will gently but effectively clean your teeth, so you can have your beautiful smile back. For inquiries, you may send us a message here on the website.