You may have wondered if it is really necessary to have preventative dental care such as routine dental cleanings.  Simply put, good oral hygiene is important not only for your looks, but to maintain your overall health.  Individuals with poor oral hygiene end up with many different problems, including gum disease, tooth decay and loss, bone loss, and heart disease.  General dental care including routine and regular check-ups and cleanings can help prevent these problems.

There are many reasons to have routine dental cleanings and check-ups.  Below are the most important reasons to have a dental cleaning.  Later articles will focus on each of these topics.

1.  To prevent oral cancer.  Believe it or not, someone in the US dies every 4 hours from oral cancer.  Routine exams screen for oral cancer
2. To prevent gum disease.  Gum disease can lead to loss of teeth and bone structure.  When caught early in a routine exam, it can be treated.
3. To maintain overall good health.  Studies have shown that there is an increased incidence of heart disease and stroke in individuals who do not have their teeth cleaned on a regular basis.
4. To maintain your tooth structure.  Routine cleanings and check-ups keep your teeth healthy…and in place!
5. To find small, underlying problems.  It is much easier to treat a small problem than a large one.
6. To have good oral health.  Routine cleanings will help maintain good oral health.  It will also help you have a bright, white smile, and help prevent bad breath!

Contact your local dentist today for a routine check-up and cleaning.  Your teeth will thank you!