Why Are Teeth Cleanings so Important?

One of the most important and helpful treatments in general dentistry is professional tooth cleanings. Before any other treatments are teeth cleaningssuggested, a thorough dental cleaning will likely be the first administered by your dentist. Understand why teeth cleanings are so important and set aside time to see a dentist at Corley Family Dental in Decatur, IL for a checkup.

What Happens at Teeth Cleanings?
Your dentist will first do a visual check of your teeth and gums to see if there are any problems that need to be discussed. The teeth are then cleaned and polished with special dental tools that thoroughly remove dental film, traces of food, and plaque. If you have tartar or calculus around your teeth, your dentist may have to do a deeper cleaning with a scaling and root planing tool. The best case scenario is that you only have to go the dentist for a standard checkup and cleaning twice per year.

Why Dental Cleanings Are So Important
As carefully and regularly as you may brush your teeth, you can't always do as thorough a job as a dentist. Even flossing can't always remove hardened tartar buildup below the gumline. Some patients have very clean, strong teeth, but their gums are inflamed due to gingivitis. Some may have cavities in their back teeth that could be the beginning of tooth decay. These are issues that only your Decatur dentist can properly diagnose and address at dental cleanings.

More Reasons to See a Dentist
There are additional benefits to going to a general dentistry for regular checkups besides having your teeth cleaned properly. Your dentist will also screen the oral cavity for soft tissue damage and sores. Dentists can also check the alignment of your teeth and jaw to suggest treatments for TMJ disorder and to prevent enamel erosion due to tooth grinding. Patients who have sleep apnea can also get help at the dentist's office.

Now Is Always a Good Time to Resume Dental Visits
Even if it's been a while since you saw a dentist, now is always a good time to resume visits. Call 217-330-6217 today to schedule a teeth cleaning with Drs. Chad and Natalie Corley at their general dentistry in Decatur, IL.