If you have never had a dental cleaning, it can be hard to understand why they are so important. If your teeth are the healthiest they have ever been, then what's the big deal? Even if you have healthy teeth, regular dental cleanings will help keep them that way longer. The truth is that plaque buildup causes gum disease, which can cause tooth loss or infection throughout the body — not something anyone wants! Here are five reasons dental cleaning is important.

1. Removes Plaque Buildup

Plaque is a buildup of food particles, dead cells, and bacteria on the teeth. It is very thin so you cannot see it, but it's still there. Regular cleanings decrease plaque buildup by removing it before it has time to harden into tartar. Tartar leads to cavities and gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss.

2. Helps Prevent Gum Disease

One of the main causes of gum disease is plaque buildup from not brushing and flossing properly, but regular cleanings also help prevent gum disease. Gum disease is a very uncomfortable condition that leads to anything from swollen gums to receding gums to tooth loss.

3. Removes Stains

Can you see the discoloration on your teeth? Don't worry; it's not a cavity or a crack. It's just coffee and tea stains from drinking those every day. While over-the-counter whitening products can help lighten your teeth, their effects wear off quickly, and they don't always provide satisfactory results. Regular cleanings can remove both surface stains and deep stains. They use abrasion to gently scrape off the top layer, which removes surface stains and any plaque buildup.

4. Helps Prevent Decay

Most people know that brushing and flossing prevent cavities, but they do not realize that decay-causing bacteria can still hide in the crevices of teeth that are very hard to reach with a toothbrush. Dental cleanings remove these bacteria that a toothbrush just can't seem to reach.

5. Creates a Brighter, Whiter Smile

Disease and decay aside, dental cleanings have a significant impact on your smile. Dental cleanings remove the stains from coffee and tea and any buildup, leaving you with a brighter smile.

According to a Delta Dental press release, about 85% of Americans consider oral health extremely or very essential to their general health. Everyone wants a beautiful, healthy smile, and regular dental cleanings can help you achieve that. Call us today to set up your next appointment!