We all know that a bright smile can light up a room. But did you know that regular dental cleanings go far beyond just keeping your teeth looking their best? At Yankee Valley Dental in Airdrie, we believe that preventive care is the foundation of a healthy smile, and regular cleanings are a key part of that.

Schedule your dental cleaning in Airdrie with Yankee Valley Dental — get in touch with us today!

Why Are Dental Cleanings So Important?

Even with diligent brushing and flossing at home, plaque and tartar can build up in hard-to-reach areas of your mouth. These deposits can lead to a host of dental problems, including:

  • Cavities: Plaque contains bacteria that produce acids that can eat away at tooth enamel, leading to cavities.
  • Gum disease: If plaque and tartar are not removed, they can irritate the gums, causing gingivitis (inflammation of the gums). Left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a serious infection that can damage the gums and supporting bone, potentially leading to tooth loss.
  • Bad breath: The bacteria in plaque can also cause bad breath (halitosis).

How Do Regular Cleanings Prevent Long-Term Health Issues?

Beyond just preventing dental problems, regular cleanings can also positively impact your overall health. Studies have shown links between gum disease and a number of serious health conditions, including:

  • Heart disease: The bacteria that cause gum disease can enter the bloodstream and contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
  • Diabetes: People with diabetes are more susceptible to gum disease, which can make it harder to control blood sugar levels.
  • Respiratory problems: The bacteria from gum disease can be inhaled into the lungs, increasing the risk of pneumonia and other respiratory infections.

What to Expect at a Dental Cleaning?

During a dental cleaning at Yankee Valley Dental, one of our skilled hygienists will:

  • Remove plaque and tartar: Using special instruments, the hygienist will carefully remove plaque and tartar from all surfaces of your teeth, including those hard-to-reach areas that you may miss with your toothbrush and floss.
  • Polish your teeth: A polishing paste will be used to remove surface stains and leave your teeth feeling smooth and shiny.
  • Floss your teeth: The hygienist will floss your teeth to remove any remaining plaque and debris between your teeth.
  • Examine your mouth for signs of oral cancer: A thorough oral cancer screening will be performed to check for any signs of abnormalities.
  • Provide personalized oral hygiene instructions: The hygienist will provide tips on improving your brushing and flossing techniques and recommend any additional oral care products that may benefit you.

Dental cleanings should be scheduled every six months; however, more frequent cleanings may be recommended if you have a history of gum disease or other risk factors.

Schedule Your Dental Cleaning in Airdrie

Regular dental cleanings are essential for maintaining a healthy smile and overall well-being. Don’t wait until you have a problem to see the dentist. Schedule your next cleaning at Yankee Valley Dental and contact us today!