Why Your Dental Cleanings Are So Valuable

When those twice-a-year dental check-ups and cleanings roll around, they are probably not the highlight of your week. But, aware of it or not, they make a significant difference in many areas of your life.

Dental cleanings every six months have many benefits for any age of patient, including:

Prevention: Even those who are diligent about tooth brushing and daily flossing can experience the buildup of tartar. Tartar is a hardened form of plaque and cannot be brushed or flossed away. It can only be removed by a dentist or hygienist who uses special tools to scrape it from surfaces of teeth and in-between teeth. When tartar is not removed, it can bore into tooth enamel (forming cavities) and destroy gum tissues. These cement-hard masses of oral bacteria can also cause gum tissues to become inflamed. This inflammation can work its way below the gum line and destroy tooth structures that support natural teeth. This is periodontal disease and is the nation’s leading cause of adult tooth loss.

Immune Support: As mentioned above, oral bacteria can cause an inflammatory reaction in gum tissues. Yet, these bacteria don’t necessarily remain in the mouth. Through tears in weakened gums, these potent bacteria can enter the bloodstream and travel throughout the body. Research has found these bacteria are capable of triggering or worsening some serious – and even deadly – conditions and diseases. These include: heart disease, stroke, dementia, preterm babies, diabetes, arthritis, some cancers, and more. Too, oral bacteria can interfere with gut health, which can complicate digestion, thus altering other healthy balances in the body.

Appearance: A dental cleaning gives your smile a clean, brighter look. By removing buildup and surface stains, the cleaning and polishing of teeth during a dental hygiene visit can provide a healthy, well-kept appearance with every smile. It’s an added perk of good oral health maintenance.

As a dentist in Shelby Township for over 25 years, I’ve seen smiles of all ages with all kinds of needs. While some people have avoided or delayed regular dental care due to having dental fear or anxiety, some people have been inconsistent with their 6-month check-ups.

If dental fear or just having the “jitters” in a dental chair has been the deterrent, we offer several options for added comfort. In addition to a gentle touch, we offer oral and IV sedation, nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”) and other options that make dental visits relaxing and pleasant.

(To learn more about comfort options, view: DrBarbatComfort

And our Macomb County dental patients, once they’ve experienced our exceptional level of care, know that not all cleanings are alike. Some patient comments include:

“From the greeting at the front desk, to the most awesome hygienists, to clear billing information and follow-up scheduling…everything is enjoyable and stress free! I love going to the dentist now! Which reminds me: Dr. Barbat is outstanding in all areas of service. She explains everything and makes suggestions for improvement, which I appreciate so much! “
– Stacey P., patient of Dr. Ban Barbat

“They make you feel like family from the time you walk in the door. Most people dread a dentist office but when your there as an appt. You truly feel like your getting soo much more. Awesome bedside manner that makes a dentist not so dreadful.”
– Casandra H., patient of Dr. Ban Barbat

For the coming year and beyond, we’d like to have you come to know dentistry in a whole new light. New patients are always welcome. If preferred, you can begin with a free consultation appointment. During this time we can discuss what options may be best for you and address any concerns you may have.

Call 586-739-2155 or tap HERE to make an online request.