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Getting your teeth professionally cleaned every six months is essential for maintaining both oral and overall health. Professional cleanings remove plaque and hardened tartar that daily brushing and flossing can’t eliminate, particularly in hard-to-reach areas. This reduces the risk of cavities and gum disease, which can progress without regular dental care.​

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Cleanings also prevent gum disease by targeting bacteria and buildup around the gumline. Left untreated, gum inflammation can lead to more severe periodontal issues. Additionally, the polishing process smooths teeth surfaces, removing surface stains and making it more difficult for plaque to adhere again, leaving your teeth brighter and healthier​.

During cleanings, dentists and hygienists offer personalized advice on brushing and flossing techniques, helping you maintain better oral hygiene between visits. These appointments also provide an opportunity to detect potential problems, like tooth decay or oral cancer, early on, when treatment is simpler and more effective​.

Moreover, oral health is closely linked to overall health. Poor oral hygiene can contribute to systemic issues such as heart disease and diabetes. Regular cleanings help reduce oral bacteria that might otherwise affect other parts of the body.​

In Queens, many local dental practices emphasize the importance of biannual cleanings and provide customized care plans to support individual needs​.

Why it’s important not to miss dental cleanings

Skipping regular dental cleanings can lead to a cascade of oral and systemic health problems over time. Without professional cleanings, plaque and tartar build up on teeth, creating an environment for cavities and gum disease to thrive. Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, is a progressive condition that begins with gum inflammation and can advance to bone loss, tooth loss, and systemic health issues like heart disease and diabetes if untreated​.

Cavities often develop under hardened tartar that is impossible to remove with brushing alone. If left untreated, they can lead to tooth decay, infections, and even abscesses. Gum disease can also result in painful gum recession and tooth loosening. Chronic bad breath is another common consequence, as bacteria trapped under tartar release unpleasant odors.

Long-term neglect of dental cleanings may increase the risk of oral cancer going undetected, as routine cleanings often include screenings for abnormal tissue changes. Pregnant individuals are particularly at risk, as untreated gum disease can lead to complications such as preterm birth and low birth weight.​

These dental issues don’t just stop in the mouth. Poor oral health has been linked to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, respiratory infections, and even complications in pregnancy. Regular cleanings every six months are a critical preventative measure to mitigate these risks and maintain both oral and overall health​.

What happens during a teeth cleaning? What does the hygienist actually do?

A professional teeth cleaning performed by a dental hygienist involves several meticulous steps aimed at maintaining oral health and preventing disease. The process usually begins with a thorough examination of your mouth. Using a small mirror, the hygienist inspects your teeth and gums for signs of cavities, gum inflammation, or other potential issues. If anything serious is detected, they may pause to consult the dentist.

Next, the hygienist removes plaque and tartar using a scaler. This step targets areas where plaque has hardened into tartar, especially along the gumline and between teeth. While this part of the cleaning can sometimes be slightly uncomfortable, it is essential for preventing gum disease and decay. Brushing and flossing alone cannot remove tartar, making this step critical.

After scaling, the hygienist polishes your teeth using a high-powered electric brush and a gritty paste. This polishing step smooths your teeth, making it harder for plaque to adhere. It also removes surface stains, leaving your teeth brighter. Following the polishing, the hygienist flosses between your teeth to remove any leftover debris and ensure a deep clean.

To complete the cleaning, your mouth is rinsed thoroughly to remove all loosened particles and cleaning agents. Sometimes, a fluoride treatment is applied as a final step to protect your teeth against cavities. This involves painting a fluoride-rich gel or varnish onto the teeth, which helps to remineralize enamel and provide long-lasting protection.

Throughout the cleaning, the hygienist may provide tips on improving your oral hygiene routine at home. This advice is personalized to address any issues observed during the appointment. Regular professional cleanings, combined with daily brushing and flossing, form the foundation of effective oral care​.

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