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While brushing and flossing do a great job of removing bacteria from your smile, dental cleanings go the extra mile in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Explore why getting dental cleanings in Omaha, NE, is so important and how they contribute to your oral health. 

The Basics of Dental Cleanings 

Dental cleanings, or prophylaxis, are professional procedures where your dentist removes plaque, tartar, and debris from your teeth and gums. They use a small mirror to examine oral tissue and a scaler to scrape away hardened substances over your teeth. After they get rid of all the buildup, they polish your teeth with special toothpaste and a rotating brush to eliminate any remaining stains. 

Professional dental cleanings make your mouth feel fresh, prevent cavities and periodontal disease, and help you maintain a beautiful smile. 

Benefits of Dental Cleanings 

Preventing Tooth Decay and Cavities 

Plaque is a sticky film of saliva, food debris, and bacteria. It accumulates over the surface of your teeth, hardening and eroding enamel and other tooth layers. If not removed regularly, plaque leads to tooth decay and cavities. 

By eliminating plaque and tartar from hard-to-reach areas of your smile, dental cleanings reduce the risk of dental issues and preserve the health of your teeth. 

Maintaining Healthy Gums 

Gum disease, also called periodontal disease, is an infection that affects the tissue surrounding and supporting your teeth. Common gum disease symptoms include inflammation, gum recession, bleeding, and potential tooth loss. 

Since dentists remove plaque and tartar around the gums during a dental cleaning, they keep your gums healthy and reduce the risk of gum-related problems. 

Early Detection of Oral Issues 

Regular dental cleanings are helpful because they give dental professionals a chance to check your mouth for any possible problems. They look for signs of issues like oral cancer, infections, or tooth fractures. Catching dental conditions early during regular dental cleanings allows dental professionals to treat them before they worsen and cause more severe issues for oral health. 

Fresh Breath and Improved Appearance 

We all appreciate fresh breath and a radiant smile. Dental cleanings help eliminate bad breath caused by oral bacteria, leaving your breath fresh and rejuvenated. Removing surface stains during cleanings can also help whiten teeth and enhance your overall smile aesthetics. 

How Often Should I Get Dental Cleanings? 

The frequency of dental cleanings varies depending on your oral health and habits. As a rule of thumb, most dentists recommend adults and children undergo dental cleanings at least twice a year. However, some patients need more frequent cleanings, such as: 

• People with a history of dental problems 
• Smokers and tobacco users 
• People with weakened immune systems 
• Pregnant patients 
• People with xerostomia (dry mouth) 

Pairing dental cleanings with proper at-home oral practices, such as flossing, using fluoride toothpaste, and brushing twice a day, will also determine how often you visit the dentist. 

Interested in Dental Cleanings in Omaha, NE? 

Ready to prioritize your oral health? Book a visit to Omaha Dentistry for professional dental cleanings. Contact us today!