Why Teeth Cleanings Are Important

young woman smiles in the dentist chair after a teeth cleaning

When was the last time you got your teeth cleaned by a dentist? Experts recommend cleanings and exams at least every six months. You may have great oral hygiene routines at home, but teeth cleanings by a professional are very important. Here are the main reasons why:

Tartar Removal

When plaque isn’t removed from your teeth, it hardens into tartar. Only dentists have the skills and tools to scrape off tartar. Even if you brush and floss really well every day, it isn’t the same as getting your teeth cleaned by a professional.

Gum Disease Prevention & Treatment

Gum disease is a very common problem. In its early stage – which is called gingivitis – you might not have any symptoms. When we’re cleaning your teeth, we can catch gum disease early before it becomes painful and causes more long-term issues. Depending on how your gums look, we might do a deeper cleaning at your appointment or just recommend better brushing and flossing at home.

Tooth Decay Diagnoses

Tooth decay can start very small. You might experience some symptoms like sensitivity, but if your tooth is just starting to get a cavity, you might not feel anything! Our trained eyes will catch the first small signs of decay and recommend treatments like fluoride, sealants, or fillings.

Brighter, Whiter Teeth

A regular teeth cleaning doesn’t whiten like professional whitening, but it does remove surface stains. The removal of tartar makes a difference, as well, because tartar gets stained by food and drink. After a teeth cleaning, your teeth will look nice and polished!

Teeth Cleanings at Jones Creek Family Dentistry

Most teeth cleanings with Dr. Jones and the team take around 30-60 minutes. Most people only need to come in twice a year, but if you need more appointments to treat issues like gum disease, we’ll let you know! If you keep up with regular cleanings, you’ll avoid more serious problems. Have questions about any of our services or want to book an appointment? Contact our Baton Rouge office today.

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