Some people may dread teeth cleanings because of the prodding, strange noises, and the occasional discomfort. However, the procedure is painless and simple. The dentist will examine your entire oral cavity and remove plaque and tartar on your teeth using a dental scaler. 

If you have excessive tartar buildup, the professional may take longer to clean it up. Then, the expert will brush your teeth using a high-powered electric brush before they floss them. Here are ways professional teeth cleaning can add value to your life.

Brighten Your Smile

Your teeth can get stained by food and beverages over time. You may feel embarrassed to talk to others, or your self-esteem can be affected. A professional dental cleaning will whiten your teeth and give you a bright smile that will improve your confidence. This benefit can also boost your mood and productivity at work.

Prevent Foul Breath

Bad breath, also called halitosis, can be daunting and lead to severe social anxiety. While gum, mints, and mouthwashes can temporarily better your breath, they don't address the root cause of the problem. Bad breath can be caused by eating foods like onions and garlic, smoking, certain medications, and infections in the mouth. 

Poor dental hygiene and a dry mouth due to low saliva production can also trigger this condition. You should brush and floss your teeth regularly to eliminate plaque buildup. Your dentist can recommend a suitable toothbrush and toothpaste. The specialist can also examine your mouth for infections like gum disease or address other causes.

Prevent Cavities

Cavities are mainly due to poor oral hygiene. When you don't brush or floss regularly, bacteria will feed on the sugar on your teeth, leading to plaque accumulation. Also, the microbes will release acids that will damage your tooth enamel. This condition can cause severe cavities that can spread from one tooth to the surrounding teeth. If left untreated for an extended period, the problem can worsen, causing periodontal disease. 

Prevent Tooth Loss and Improve Overall Health

Plaque buildup on your teeth will weaken your gum line and cause gum disease. As a result, your teeth's structural support will be compromised, making you susceptible to tooth loss. You may also experience pain due to nerve damage. Your dental specialist may have to extract the affected tooth if the pain becomes unbearable.

Your oral health affects your overall well-being. Proper oral hygiene will reduce your risk for diabetes and heart disease. Moreover, oral infections strain your immune system, making you vulnerable to more diseases. 

Contact a dental office like Chinook Family Dentistry to learn more.