10 Reasons Why Dental Cleanings Are Essential For Your Overall Health

Explore the top 10 benefits of dental cleaning and discover how this essential preventive measure can significantly improve your overall health.

Let's dive into the advantages of professional dental cleaning and understand its importance in maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

The link between dental cleanings and overall health

A smile that reveals clean teeth and healthy gums

Did you know that a simple dental cleaning can have a significant impact on your overall health? It's no secret that maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for healthy teeth and gums, but the benefits extend far beyond a dazzling smile. In fact, dental cleanings play a crucial role in preventing various health issues that can affect your entire body. 

1. Reduces the risk of heart disease

Heart disease

Regular dental cleanings help to prevent gum disease, which has been linked to an increased risk of developing heart disease.  By removing plaque and tartar buildup, dental cleanings can keep your gums healthy and reduce inflammation, ultimately lowering your chances of developing heart-related complications.

How a periodontal infection may cause heart disease?

Research reveals a connection between periodontal disease (gum disease) and cardiovascular disease, both being inflammatory in nature. Here's how gum disease can potentially contribute to heart problems: 

  • Invasion of Bacteria: Harmful oral bacteria can enter the bloodstream, reach the heart and blood vessels, and potentially cause endocarditis, an infection of the heart's inner lining.
  • Inflammatory Response: The body's response to periodontal infection produces inflammatory substances that can damage the heart and blood vessels, contributing to atherosclerosis, and the hardening, and narrowing of arteries.
  • Bacterial Products: Byproducts of bacterial metabolism, such as lipopolysaccharides, can negatively impact heart health and contribute to cardiovascular disease.

Maintaining oral health through regular dental cleanings, good oral hygiene practices, and gum disease treatment is crucial not just for your teeth and gums, but also for your heart.

2. Prevents respiratory infections 

Believe it or not, dental cleanings can also help to prevent respiratory infections. When bacteria from your mouth make their way into your lungs, it can lead to infections such as pneumonia. Regular teeth cleanings can help to keep harmful bacteria in check, leading to better respiratory health. 

3. Lowers the risk of diabetes complications 

Studies have shown that there is a strong connection between gum disease and diabetes. By maintaining good oral health through dental cleanings, you can reduce the risk of gum disease, which can help to prevent potential complications related to diabetes.

4. Supports a healthy pregnancy 

Healthy pregnancy

Pregnant women with gum disease are at a higher risk of developing complications such as premature birth and low birth weight babies. Regular dental cleanings during pregnancy can help to keep gum disease at bay, contributing to a healthier pregnancy and a healthier baby. 

Did you know that pregnant women with gum disease are at a higher risk of premature birth and low birth weight babies?

5. Reduces the risk of oral cancer 

During a dental cleaning, your dentist will also perform an oral cancer screening. This early detection can significantly increase your chances of successful treatment, making regular dental cleanings an essential preventive measure for oral cancer. 

6. Prevents tooth loss

An old man who lost his teeth

Gum disease is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. By keeping your teeth and gums clean through regular dental cleanings, you can prevent gum disease and ultimately protect your teeth from falling out. 

7. Detects early signs of dental issues 

Gum disease

Regular dental cleanings provide an opportunity for your dentist to detect any early signs of dental problems, such as periodontal disease, cavities, or gum disease. Early detection means that these issues can be treated before they become more serious and costly to fix. 

8. Boosts your self-esteem 

A clean and healthy smile can do wonders for your self-confidence. Regular dental cleanings help to keep your teeth looking their best, which can lead to a boost in self-esteem and an overall sense of well-being. 

9. Improves your overall quality of life

An old man and woman smiling with healthy teeth

When you maintain good oral health through regular dental cleanings, you're not only preventing potentially serious health issues but also ensuring that you can enjoy your favorite foods, speak clearly, and smile confidently throughout your life. 

10. Saves you money in the long run

Someone who save money in his wallet

Investing in dental cleanings now can save you money in the future by preventing costly dental procedures and treatments. By prioritizing your oral health, you're ultimately investing in your overall well-being and financial stability.

Frequently Asked Questions 

How often should you get your teeth professionally cleaned?

To maintain optimal oral and overall health, it is recommended to get your teeth professionally cleaned at least twice a year. However, depending on your individual dental needs, your dentist may suggest more frequent professional cleanings.

Does it make sense to have professional teeth cleaning for preventive purposes? 

Yes, professional teeth cleaning helps prevent gum disease, tooth decay, and other oral health issues. 

What not to do after a dental cleaning?

Avoid consuming hot or cold food and beverages, hard or sticky foods, and smoking for at least a few hours after the cleaning. 

How long after teeth cleaning can you eat normally? 

It is generally safe to eat normally about two hours after the dental cleaning but consult your dentist for personalized advice. 

Why do dentists push deep cleaning? 

Dentists recommend a deep cleaning to remove plaque and tartar buildup, treat gum disease, and maintain overall oral health. 

What are the benefits of brushing your tongue? 

Brushing your tongue helps remove bacteria, reduces bad breath, and improves overall oral hygiene. 

Is it necessary to clean teeth at the dentist? 

Yes, regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums and preventing oral health issues. 

What happens if you never get your teeth cleaned at the dentist's? 

Skipping regular teeth cleanings can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, bad breath, and eventually tooth loss or other serious oral health problems.

Conclusion

In conclusion, regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaining a healthy smile and overall well-being. A dentist in Carmel Mountain Ranch, CA can help you reap the numerous benefits of regular dental cleaning, from preventing gum disease to detecting oral cancer early.

Remember, a healthy mouth is a gateway to a healthy body. So, don't wait any longer, and book an appointment with your dentist today!