Importance of Regular Cleanings & Periodontal Disease - Where to go if you don't have insurance

The Dangers of Not Having a Teeth Cleaning Every 6 Months

Regular dental cleanings every six months are essential for maintaining oral health and preventing serious complications. Skipping these cleanings can lead to plaque and tartar buildup, which are difficult to remove through regular brushing and flossing alone. Plaque, a sticky film of bacteria, forms continuously on the teeth and hardens into tartar if not removed by professional cleaning. This buildup not only causes bad breath and discoloration but also creates an environment where bacteria thrive, increasing the risk of cavities and gum inflammation.

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Failing to get routine cleanings also heightens the risk of gum disease, which starts with gingivitis, a mild form of gum inflammation. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress into more severe periodontal disease, which is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults. The bacteria in plaque and tartar can invade the gums, causing them to recede and form pockets around the teeth. Without intervention, this can lead to bone and tissue damage. Additionally, poor oral hygiene has been linked to systemic health issues, such as heart disease and diabetes. In short, skipping dental cleanings can lead to serious long-term consequences, both for oral health and overall well-being.

The Dangers of Periodontal Disease

Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a serious condition that affects the tissues and bones supporting the teeth. It starts with gum inflammation but can quickly escalate to more destructive stages if not treated early. In its advanced stages, periodontal disease can lead to tooth loss, as the gums pull away from the teeth, forming deep pockets where bacteria accumulate. This causes the breakdown of the bone and connective tissue that hold teeth in place. Periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults and can severely impact a person's ability to chew, speak, and maintain a confident smile.

Moreover, the dangers of periodontal disease extend beyond the mouth. Research has shown that the bacteria involved in gum infections can enter the bloodstream, leading to inflammation in other parts of the body. This has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and complications in diabetic patients. Pregnant women with periodontal disease are also at higher risk of premature birth and low birth weight. The condition's ability to affect overall health makes it even more critical to prevent and manage it through proper oral care and regular dental visits. Periodontal disease is preventable with early intervention, but neglecting it can have severe consequences for both oral and systemic health.

What Deep Cleanings Are and Why They Are Important for Patients with Periodontal Disease

For patients with periodontal disease, deep cleanings, also known as scaling and root planing, are crucial treatments aimed at stopping the progression of the disease and restoring oral health. A deep cleaning goes beyond a routine dental cleaning, targeting the buildup of plaque and tartar below the gum line and on the roots of the teeth. During this procedure, a dentist or dental hygienist carefully removes hardened deposits and smooths the tooth roots, making it more difficult for bacteria to adhere to the surface in the future.

The importance of deep cleanings for patients with periodontal disease cannot be overstated. If periodontal disease is left untreated, it will continue to worsen, causing further gum recession, bone loss, and eventual tooth loss. Deep cleanings help to reduce inflammation, shrink the gum pockets, and promote the reattachment of gums to the teeth, thereby stabilizing the patient's oral health. Regular deep cleanings may be necessary for patients with advanced periodontal disease, as the condition tends to be chronic and requires ongoing maintenance to prevent flare-ups. Without deep cleanings, the disease may progress to the point where more invasive treatments, such as surgery, become necessary. Therefore, deep cleanings play a critical role in managing periodontal disease and preventing its long-term damage.

If you are looking for a teeth cleaning in Greenpoint then try Eurodental Studio in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. The practice offers all procedures including deep cleanings and regular cleanings. The practice accepts most PPO insurances. The practice is run by Eva Sokal, DDS and the practice also has a periodontist, orthodontist and oral surgeon. In Queens if you are looking for a teeth cleaning in Astoria or Queens then make an appointment online with Konstantine Malafis, DDS a well known dentist that treats all dental emergencies and performs all cosmetic and general procedures. Dr. Malafis offers teeth cleanings for those without insurance that includes exam, cleaning and x-rays.