Why you need Professional Teeth Cleaning and Dental Exams

Scheduling professional teeth cleanings and dental exams are important in maintaining good health and appearance. However, not only is good oral hygiene important for your smile, but it also contributes to your overall health playing an important part in the prevention of gum disease and other health complications. In a professional teeth cleaning and dental examination, a dental hygienist will apply a fluoride treatment to the teeth. Fluoride is a mineral which restores the enamel of teeth and helps prevent tooth decay. Your dental hygienist will also look for any early signs of cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, or any other signs of problems with the teeth and gums.

A routine professional teeth cleaning and dental exam can play huge parts in preventing gum infections such as gingivitis or periodontal disease. Gingivitis is a form of gum disease which leads to inflamed gums. Symptoms of gingivitis may include gums that are swollen, red, tender, and may bleed easily. People may even experience tooth loss, tooth ache, or ulcers. Periodontal disease may destroy the jawbone, can lead to tooth loss, be a risk factor for heart/ lung diseases and low birth weight. Regularly scheduled dental exams can also help provide an early detection of oral cancer and can be very important to improving the prognosis of cancer the earlier oral cancer is detected. Oral cancer looks like a sore or lump that doesn’t heal and may be tender or painful. Oral cancer may come from heavy alcohol use, tobacco use, and the human papilloma virus.

Improving and maintaining your oral hygiene can be an instrumental part in maintaining your health as you age. If you would like to schedule a professional cleaning, dental exam, or have further inquiries that include professional dentistry please contact Dr. Elizabeth Haynes, or Dr. Maurice Haynes at University Centre Dental Associates. We are conveniently located in Greenbelt, MD and serve the surrounding Washington, DC communities such as Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, and Anne Arundel County.