Most individuals receive routine dental cleanings every six months to a year. However, the American Dental Association issued a statement noting that some people do better with more frequent dental exams, depending on their specific oral health needs. Regardless of how often you schedule your cleanings, maintaining your regular dental cleanings is one of the most important things you can do for your oral health.
During a dental cleaning, you receive a comprehensive oral exam, a cleaning (to remove plaque and tartar), a polish with a gritty paste, and a fluoride treatment. Not only does an exam allow Dr. Mehrnoosh Darj an opportunity to check in with you and address any current concerns with your mouth and teeth, but regular dental cleanings can also prevent the most common dental health problems.
Tooth decay — more commonly known as cavities — occurs when acid-producing bacteria eat away at the enamel of your teeth. Plaque is a sticky, bacteria-laden film that covers your teeth, and when plaque isn’t thoroughly removed through brushing and flossing, you might develop a cavity. At first, cavities may not produce any symptoms, but left untreated, a cavity can affect your gum health and even expose the roots of your tooth.
Cavities are the second-most common disease, behind the common cold, according to a study published in the journal Medical Science Monitor. Even though cavities are so prevalent, your regular dental cleaning can help prevent tooth decay:
Think you already have a cavity? Don’t wait until your next cleaning. Come see us as soon as possible to stop the decay before it progresses.
Gingivitis is a mild form of gum disease. You might suspect you have gingivitis if your gums are red, inflamed, or if they bleed when you brush your teeth. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress into a more serious form of gum disease.
During your routine exam, Dr. Darj can spot the signs of gingivitis and help prevent it from escalating into periodontitis or tooth loss.
It’s normal to have bad breath after eating a lot of garlic, but if you always have bad breath — even after brushing — you may have an underlying oral condition. Cavities, infections, and even excess plaque can contribute to bad breath. Your regular cleaning can help prevent these conditions, which then helps reduce bad breath.
Tooth sensitivity is characterized by pain after eating or drinking both hot and cold foods. You might experience temporary sensitivity after a tooth whitening treatment, but if you continue to experience sensitivity, it could be caused by a deep cavity. When the root of the tooth is exposed, you’re more likely to experience sensitivity.
Regular cleanings can prevent decay-related sensitivity by catching cavities before they get too big.
Toothaches occur for a variety of reasons, and they’re a common reason for needing emergency dental care. Toothaches can be caused by fractures and cracks, but also severe decay, infections, and abscesses. A regular cleaning and exam can help prevent toothaches by catching and treating cavities before they progress.
At Dr. Darj Dental, we offer comprehensive dental care. Whether you need a routine cleaning, a crown, or an emergency extraction, we’re here to make sure you get the oral care you need.
To schedule an appointment at our El Paso, Texas clinic, you can easily request an appointment online. You can also call the office directly at 915-213-4097.
