In a recent survey, 42% of Americans claim that they do not visit the dentist as often as they would like. If you are like one of many Americans who don’t visit the dentist regularly, it can sometimes be challenging to determine whether it’s time for a teeth cleaning and exam. Here are four signs that your smile could benefit from a professional dental cleaning.
1. Dull Smile
Are your pearly whites starting to look not-so-pearly anymore? Dental plaque is a sticky, bacterial film that naturally accumulates on the teeth and under the gums throughout the teeth. At mealtime, you’re not the only one enjoying your meal–the bacteria on your teeth also get to eat too. Oral bacteria thrive on carbohydrates and sugar and produce acids that erode the enamel (surface of the teeth) and cause tooth decay. Daily brushing and flossing, drinking water, and chewing sugar-free control can control plaque build-up.
However, when people do not remove plaque from their teeth, it hardens and transforms into tartar. Tartar deposits can coat the enamel and invade below the gum line, making the teeth appear brown or yellow. Tartar cannot be removed by brushing and flossing and can only be eliminated by a dental hygienist.
2. Swollen, Bleeding Gums
Do your gums look red and puffy? Have you noticed a trail of blood on your toothbrush or in the sink after brushing your teeth? Swollen, bleeding gums are often the initial signs of a gum infection (gingivitis) and happen when oral bacteria multiply. With early intervention by a dental hygienist and consistent oral hygiene routines, gingivitis is reversible.
Unfortunately, when patients prolong intervention, gingivitis escalates into irreversible gum disease (periodontitis or periodontal disease). Some symptoms of periodontal disease include:
- Mild periodontitis: gum pockets form and fill with plaque and tartar
- Moderate periodontitis: gum pockets deepen and cause bone and tissue destruction
- Severe periodontitis: extensive bone and tissue loss, teeth loss may occur
When patients develop gum disease, frequent dental cleanings and root scaling and planing can help patients manage the disease (but won’t reverse it).
3. Tooth Sensitivity
If you avoid foods and beverages that are hot or cold because of sensitivity, it’s time to visit the dentist for a diagnosis and treatment plan. Teeth become sensitive when protective layers wear down and various things can cause it:
- Tooth decay
- Brushing too aggressively
- Consuming highly acidic drinks and foods
- Leaky fillings
- Dental trauma
- Grinding teeth excessively
- Gum recession
Because dental sensitivity is a complex issue, it’s essential to see a dentist right away. After cleaning the teeth, they can come up with the next steps for treatment.
4. Bad Breath
Generally, bad breath can be caused by consuming certain foods, health problems, or specific medications that dry out the mouth. However, if your bad breath cannot be resolved by brushing and flossing your teeth and you are in otherwise good health, you may want to consider having your teeth cleaned at the dentist’s office. Dental hygienists can remove bad-breath-causing bacteria that a toothbrush cannot remove.
Schedule a Teeth Cleaning in Lombard, IL
If you haven’t had a dental cleaning in over six months or are experiencing any of the previously mentioned symptoms, you’re long due for a visit to the dentist. At Dental Care of Lombard, our talented dental hygienists gently polish and scrub mouths so that patients can reap the benefits of a healthier, brighter smile. There’s no time like the present. Book your next teeth cleaning in Lombard, IL, by calling 630-629-5700 or conveniently messaging us online today.
