One of the most common problems that we
see in our Boca Raton dental office is that patients avoid their semi-annual
appointments. Some patients have dental anxiety and fear, so they put off their
regular dental appointments due to nerves. Other patients are simply busy—perhaps
they mean to schedule their check-up but it just slips their mind until it’s
too late. Making time for your semi-annual dental appointment is a commitment that
you have to make—it’s vital to your dental health and the appearance your
smile.
Many of our patients take excellent
care of their teeth at home. They brush and floss regularly, and they avoid
substances like tobacco, which can destroy your oral health. No matter how
diligent you are about at-home care, however, you still need professional
cleanings to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
As we know oral bacteria cause dental decay
and infections. As we eat, drink, and speak throughout the day we accumulate
plaque—a stick bacterial film—on teeth and gums. Brushing and flossing clear
away plaque in an effort to prevent the plaque from causing cavities and
infections. It is impossible, however, to rid your mouth of all plaque—plaque persists
in between teeth and in the grooves and pits of dental enamel. This plaque
hardens into something called calculus (also called tartar). Tartar is plaque
that is bonded to dental enamel—it provides an ideal breeding ground for
bacteria. Importantly, only a professional dental cleaning can eliminate
tartar.
Having a semi-annual professional
cleaning, therefore, allows you to have a “clean slate” of sorts every six
months. Your dentist will clear away persistent tartar, and then you can
maintain a plaque-free mouth to the best of your ability until your next
appointment. This combination of diligent at-home care and regular professional
cleanings is the proven method for minimizing dental problems.
There are other advantages to having
professional cleanings. Our Boca Raton general dentists, for instance, check
for signs of oral cancer during regular cleanings. Additionally, check-ups give
us the opportunity to access your oral health for any emerging infections that
may require immediate attention.
Semi-annual professional cleanings will
help you avoid serious dental problems in the future. Make a plan to see a
dentist regularly, and then work with your dentist to maintain that schedule.
If you’d like to set up an appointment, or if you’d like more information about
professional cleanings, give us a call at (561) 705-0249.