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Your daily brushing and flossing routine is essential for preventing cavities and gum disease, but it’s not enough on its own to maintain optimal oral health. This is why regular dental cleanings and checkups at Hardin Family Dental are so important. These professional cleanings enhance your daily efforts by targeting areas you can’t reach at home, such as removing tartar—hardened plaque that can damage tooth enamel and gum tissue—and identifying potential issues early, when treatment is easier and more affordable.
Plaque and tartar can accumulate quickly, putting your oral health at risk. At Hardin Family Dental, our experienced team offers thorough cleanings to keep your smile healthy, vibrant, and free from disease.
What Happens During a Dental Cleaning?
During your routine dental cleaning at Hardin Family Dental, our team will remove tartar from above and below the gum line, polish your teeth for a brighter smile, and perform a professional flossing. This process not only keeps your teeth clean but also helps reduce stains caused by food and beverages, leaving your smile looking its best.
Additionally, our dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth, gums, and oral tissues, often using dental X-rays to detect hidden issues. These exams allow us to catch potential problems—such as cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, jawbone deterioration, and bite misalignment—early, long before they become painful or require more invasive treatment.
Why Should I Get My Teeth Cleaned Regularly?
Protect Tooth Enamel
Regular cleanings help prevent the effects of plaque, tartar, and conditions like bruxism (teeth grinding) from wearing down your enamel, which is essential for a healthy smile.
Prevent Gum Disease
Routine dental cleanings keep your gums healthy, reducing the risk of inflammation, infection, and potential tooth or bone loss.
Support Jawbone Health
Regular exams ensure your jawbone remains strong and healthy, providing a stable foundation for your teeth and preventing future complications.
Whiter, Brighter Teeth
Professional polishing during your cleaning can remove stains and discoloration, keeping your smile bright.
Fresher Breath
Dental cleanings eliminate plaque and bacteria, which contribute to bad breath, helping you maintain fresh, clean breath.
Early Cancer Detection
Regular checkups include screenings for oral cancer, allowing us to catch it in its most treatable stages.
Improve Overall Health
By maintaining a disease-free mouth, you lower your risk of other health issues, such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.
How Often Do I Need My Teeth Cleaned?
For most people, visiting Hardin Family Dental twice a year for regular dental cleanings is sufficient to keep their oral health on track. However, if you have a higher risk for dental problems, more frequent visits may be recommended. High-risk factors include:
- Being 55 or older
- Tobacco or alcohol use
- Hormonal changes (e.g., pregnancy, menopause)
- Diabetes or cancer
- Medications causing dry mouth
- High-stress levels
- Poor oral hygiene habits
- Family history of dental issues
Preventative care, like regular cleanings, can save you money in the long run by addressing potential issues early, avoiding more costly treatments down the line. Maintaining your oral health also often reduces the overall cost of dental insurance, making routine cleanings a smart investment in your health and finances.
Start the New Year with a Fresh, Clean Smile
With the holidays fast approaching, now is the perfect time to schedule your end-of-year cleaning at Hardin Family Dental. Start the new year with confidence, knowing your teeth are clean, healthy, and well cared for. Give yourself the gift of a healthy, radiant smile by scheduling your next dental cleaning with us today!
