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Brushing and flossing daily are the pillars of optimal oral health and function. However, dental cleanings also play an important role. By visiting our East Nashville family dentistry at least twice a year, we can remove buildup plaque, search for cavities, and ensure your oral hygiene is in top condition to prevent complex, more serious diseases from developing. 

However, the importance of that treatment is often overlooked. This guide is here to help you understand that and protect your oral health by tackling the importance of getting regular dental cleanings.

What Is a Dental Cleaning? 

Getting regular dental cleanings is essential to keeping your gums and teeth healthy. During these appointments, a dental hygienist will clean, polish, and floss your teeth to remove bacteria, tartar, and hardened plaque that was not removed by thorough brushing and flossing at home. 

During the same appointment, we might also apply fluoride treatments and dental sealants, among other preventive measures.  

The American Dental Association says patients should schedule dental cleanings at the regular intervals prescribed by their dentist. This is often done every six months for most people, but the frequency could change based on their unique oral health needs. 

For instance, you may need more frequent dental cleanings if any of the following pertains to you: 

• You have gum disease 
• You have relatives with a history of cavities or plaque buildup 
• You have a weakened immune system 
• You have been under a lot of stress or have other illnesses 
• You are a senior 

In total, the cleaning can last between 30 minutes to one hour. But why is this treatment so important? 

 What Are the Advantages of Regular Dental Cleanings? 

Regular dental cleanings have several advantages, such as: 

• Less risk of developing severe oral health problems like gum disease and cavities. 
• Healthcare providers have long recognized a link between routine dental cleanings and reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and dementia, as oral health and whole-body health are deeply intertwined. 
• Preventing bad breath, since tartar and hardened plaque can aggravate bad breath. 
• Reduced cost. Dental cleanings and other preventive dental care help prevent problems before they start, saving you a lot of time, worry, and money in the long run. 

Are There Any Risks of Routine Dental Cleanings? 

No, dental cleanings are safe and effective.  

However, right after the procedure, you might have some transient side effects, like sensitive teeth or sore gums. To treat discomfort, use an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as acetaminophen, naproxen, or ibuprofen.  

The soreness should subside in a few days. 

Can Patients with Dental Anxiety Get Dental Cleanings? 

Often, patients who need dental cleanings the most fail to visit a dental office regularly, and dental anxiety is a common reason for that.  

Even if that’s your case, we have several strategies to combat your anxiety, like sedation dentistry, to help you stay comfortable and relaxed during your visit while we ensure your mouth is perfectly healthy. 

Visit Our East Nashville Family Dentistry 

Routine dental cleanings are essential to maintaining good oral health. Brushing and flossing alone can’t get rid of all the debris, tartar, and plaque buildup, so a professional’s help is crucial to preventing cavities and periodontitis. 

Reach out to Greenwood Local Dentistry today and ensure your oral health is in top condition!