The Importance of Regular Dental Cleanings

Going to the dentist can sometimes feel like an inconvenience, especially when it takes time out of your busy day. You may wonder if it's truly necessary to go to these appointments twice per year. Is it really that important? The answer is yes! It's extremely important, and here's why: oral health has been liked with your overall health and can actually contribute to other serious health concerns such as diabetes, stroke and cardiovascular disease. There's never been a better time to take charge of your health and well being and your dentist in Fairfax, VA can help!

What Happens at Your Regular Cleaning and Checkup?

Besides cleaning and polishing your teeth, your dental hygienist is also removing excessive plaque build up that hasn't been eliminated through regular brushing and flossing. Plaque buildup can cause oral health issues such as periodontal (gum) disease and tooth decay, which we'll also screen you for at your regular appointments. Believe it or not, your dentist can detect signs of these issues much earlier than you can, which means less invasive and less costly treatment for you.

What is Periodontal Disease?

When plaque and tartar buildup cause your gums to separate from your teeth, it allows harmful bacteria to descend below your gum line. This bacteria causes your tissues and bone to become infected, and this is known as gum disease. The bacteria from gum disease can also enter your bloodstream and travel to other areas of your body, this is what contributes to inflammation and those other health issues in the body. If left untreated, this infection will eventually destroy your gum tissue and bone, which will lead to tooth loss. Did you know that periodontal disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in American adults?

If we can detect gum disease in its early stage, known as gingivitis, we can often treat it with a thorough professional cleaning and improved home care. Periodontitis, which is the advanced stage of gum disease, requires a deeper cleaning known as scaling and root planing in order to remove plaque and tartar buildup from beneath your gums.

Gum Disease Treatment in Fairfax

Your health is too important to risk! Get to your regular dental appointment, or call us now to schedule.