How Can Dental Cleaning Help Prevent Gum Disease?

December 2, 2024 by Daylight Dental South Austin
Image
how can dental cleaning help prevent gum disease
how can dental cleaning help prevent gum disease

Are you ignoring your regular dental checkups? 

If yes, it is high time you should take these visits seriously. 

Gum disease, in its worst form, can lead to tooth loss as well. Hence, it is necessary to take appropriate steps to prevent this possibility of gum infection. 

Dental checkups and regular dental cleanings play an essential role in preventing gum disease. With regular cleanings, you can detect dental issues early and cure them on time. This can make sure you smile with healthy teeth and gum.

This blog will discuss the topic of gum disease and dental cleanings on a broader note.

What is Gum Disease?

Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease targets the tissues supporting your teeth. At the initial stage, the gums become red and swollen. When left without treatment, this leads to periodontitis. This means gum recession, and the last stage is tooth loss. 

Common causes of gum disease are:

  • Poor oral hygiene 
  • Smoking
  • Buildup of plaque.

How do Dental Cleanings Help Prevent Gum Disease?

With daily dental exams and cleaning in South Austin, you can reduce your chances of getting gum disease. 

Here’s how it works:

  1. Plaque and Tartar Removal
  • Plaque is a sticky kind of bacteria that usually forms on teeth. If not cleaned on time, it can harden into tartar. 
  • Tartar causes gum irritation.
  • Only brushing at home cannot remove this tartar. Here comes the role of dental cleaning.
  1. Reduces Bacteria
  • Bacteria in your mouth can affect the gums, which can lead to inflammation.
  • With dental cleanings, you can keep healthy gums by controlling the level of bacteria.
  1. Works Against Gum Inflammation 
  • Dental cleanings reduce the signs of swollen gums and redness caused by plaque buildup.
  • With healthy gums, you can lower the chances of getting gum infection.
  1. Early Detection
  • When you go for dental checkups on a regular basis, your dentist can examine and identify early signs of gum disease. 
  • Early detection means timely prevention.

How do you know if you need dental cleanings?

If you are still unsure of dental cleanings, look out for these signs:

  • Continuous bad breath
  • Bleeding from gums during brushing
  • Swollen gums
  • Loose teeth 
  • Gaps between teeth.

If you notice any sign from this list, you should immediately book an appointment for a dental exam.

How to Maintain Healthy Gums Between Cleanings?

As per CDC reports, almost 42% of adults have periodontitis. This number clearly shows how important it is to maintain healthy gums.

If you are wondering how to do that in between your dental cleaning sessions, here is a brief guideline:

  • With fluoride toothpaste, brush your teeth two times on a daily basis
  • Daily flossing is essential for removing debris from between your teeth
  • To reduce plaque, you can use antibacterial mouthwash.
  • Have a balanced diet full of fruits and vegetables.
  • Do not smoke, as it weakens the gum tissues. 

Take Charge of Your Gum Health

If you really wish to prevent your chances of getting gum disease, your first step should be dental exams and cleanings. This ensures you keep maintaining healthy gums without unnecessary complications. Pair these with a good oral care routine, and you get to enjoy a bright smile for years.

Schedule your dental cleaning today to make sure your gums stay healthy and infection-free.