5 Huge Problems With Not Going to the Dentist for Cleanings

Skipping a dental cleaning might seem like an acceptable option when your schedule is packed. Yet, not going to the dentist for a cleaning can quickly add up to some serious problems. Making sure to stay on top of your teeth cleaning schedule makes it easy to avoid these five common issues that occur when too much time elapses between dental visits.

1- Failing to Identify Early Tooth Decay and Oral Cancer

Dental exams are the main way that dentists check for oral health issues, but hygienists also tend to notice changes in your mouth that require further investigation. During a dental cleaning, a hygienist might notice a new spot on your soft tissues that indicate potential oral cancer. Finding these types of problems as early as possible gives you the best possible prognosis for treatment.

2- Experiencing Foul Breath

Even when you brush your teeth at home, you might be missing areas that are hard to reach. The plaque and tartar that accumulate in these areas can begin to develop bacterial overgrowth that leads to foul odors. Teeth cleanings eliminate this buildup, and your dentist can also recommend special mouth rinses to help with dry mouth and other issues that contribute to bad breath.

3- Developing Noticeable Stains

Dental hygienists use special tools that can help to lift stubborn stains and yellow spots that your toothbrush and floss cannot. Keep in mind that deep-set stains might still need teeth whitening treatments, but you might be surprised at just how white your teeth can get when you have general teeth cleaning. A teeth cleaning can also remove noticeable calculus that frequently develops on the front of your teeth.

4- Missing Out On Dental Hygiene Support

During your teeth cleaning, your dental care provider will spend time making sure that you are capable of managing your oral hygiene routine at home. If you struggle with using string floss or reaching your back teeth, then let your dentist know. While you’re in the office for a teeth cleaning, they can walk you through strategies for improving your ability to remove plaque and tartar at home.

5- Putting Yourself at Risk for Serious Gum Disease

Gum disease develops when bacteria-filled biofilm develops below your gum line. Although you’ll want to brush around your gum line and floss each day, it is still hard to fully clean this area without a little help. Regular dental cleanings can reverse gum disease in its earliest stages. If you already have advanced gum disease, then a cleaning can help to remove the bacteria that is fueling the inflammation and infection to keep it controlled.

If you’ve fallen off track with teeth cleanings, then it helps to know that you can minimize problems by scheduling one now. Although you might need a special type of cleaning if it’s been a long time since your last one, removing plaque and tartar helps you to prevent gum disease or get a current case under control. Plus, you’ll love having clean, bright teeth that you feel confident showing as you smile.