At Restore Dental Studio in Mount Prospect, IL, we believe that a healthy smile is more than just aesthetically pleasing—it’s a vital part of your overall health. One of the most effective and simple ways to maintain both is by scheduling regular dental cleanings. Despite being a routine procedure, dental cleanings play a crucial role in preventing a wide array of oral health issues, improving your appearance, and even reducing risks for more serious medical conditions.
In this blog, we’ll explore why regular dental cleanings are essential, what to expect during your appointment, and how often you should schedule them.
What Are Dental Cleanings?
Dental cleanings, also known as prophylaxis, are professional procedures performed by dental hygienists or dentists to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from your teeth. While daily brushing and flossing are critical, they can’t reach every crevice of your mouth—this is where professional cleanings come in.
1. Prevention of Gum Disease: One of the leading causes of adult tooth loss is periodontal disease (gum disease). It starts as gingivitis—red, swollen gums that may bleed when you brush. If not treated, it can progress to periodontitis, which damages the bone that supports your teeth.
Regular dental cleanings at Restore Dental Studio in Mount Prospect, IL help:
- Remove plaque and tartar buildup that cause gum inflammation.
- Detect early signs of gum disease before they become serious.
- Keep your gums healthy and strong.
2. Early Detection of Oral Health Issues: During your cleaning appointment, your dentist or hygienist will also perform a comprehensive oral examination. This allows us to:
- Check for cavities and tooth decay.
- Identify early signs of oral cancer.
- Examine the health of existing dental work like fillings, crowns, and implants.
- Monitor jaw alignment and screen for TMJ disorders.
Catching problems early means less invasive treatments and more cost-effective care in the long run.
3. Brighter, Whiter Smile: Food, drinks, and lifestyle habits like coffee, tea, wine, and smoking can stain your teeth over time. A professional cleaning helps:
- Remove surface stains and polish your teeth.
- Leave your mouth feeling clean and fresh.
- Enhance your smile’s natural brightness.
At Restore Dental Studio, we also offer cosmetic services if you want to take your smile enhancement to the next level, but a cleaning is often the perfect place to start.
4. Fresher Breath: Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is often caused by:
- Food particles stuck in your teeth or gums.
- Bacteria buildup on your tongue.
- Gum disease and tooth decay.
Regular cleanings eliminate the bacteria and debris that cause odor, leaving you with fresher breath and improved self-confidence.
5. Protecting Your Overall Health: Your mouth is the gateway to your body, and poor oral health has been linked to several systemic conditions, including:
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Diabetes
- Respiratory infections
- Pregnancy complications
Regular cleanings help reduce inflammation and bacteria in the mouth that could potentially enter your bloodstream and impact other parts of your body.
6. Cost Savings in the Long Run: Preventive care is always more affordable than restorative or emergency treatments. Regular dental cleanings:
- Help you avoid costly procedures like root canals, crowns, or extractions.
- Allow us to treat problems early before they become complex.
- Are often fully or mostly covered by dental insurance.
At Restore Dental Studio in Mount Prospect, we help patients understand their insurance benefits and offer flexible payment options to make dental care accessible for everyone.
What Happens During a Dental Cleaning at Restore Dental Studio?
Here’s what you can expect when you come in for a dental cleaning at our Mount Prospect office:
- Step 1: Medical History Review: We’ll start by reviewing your health history, medications, and any concerns you may have.
- Step 2: Oral Exam: Your hygienist or dentist will examine your teeth, gums, tongue, and jaw.
- Step 3: Plaque and Tartar Removal: Using specialized tools, we’ll gently remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and along your gum line.
- Step 4: Polishing: We’ll polish your teeth using a gritty paste to remove surface stains and smooth the enamel.
- Step 5: Flossing and Rinse: We’ll floss between your teeth and provide a rinse to remove any debris.
- Step 6: Fluoride Treatment (Optional): To strengthen your enamel and prevent decay, we may recommend a fluoride application.
How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?
For most people, a dental cleaning every six months is sufficient. However, some individuals may benefit from more frequent visits, such as:
- Smokers
- Diabetics
- Pregnant women
- People with a history of gum disease or extensive dental work
Our team at Restore Dental Studio will create a personalized care plan based on your unique oral health needs.
Schedule Your Next Cleaning in Mount Prospect, IL
If it’s been more than six months since your last dental cleaning, now is the perfect time to schedule one. At Restore Dental Studio, we pride ourselves on offering a comfortable, professional, and family-friendly environment for patients of all ages.
Let us help you maintain a radiant, healthy smile for life.
Dental cleanings are more than just a polish—they’re a powerful preventive tool that safeguards your oral and overall health. Whether you’re due for your biannual visit or it’s been a while, we welcome you to Restore Dental Studio in Mount Prospect, IL, where your smile is our priority.
