The Importance of Routine Cleanings (Prophylaxis) at The Dental 360: Keep Your Smile Bright and Healthy A healthy smile starts with good habits—and routine cleanings (also known as prophylaxis) are an essential part of maintaining optimal oral health. At The Dental 360, we believe that preventive care is the best way to avoid costly dental problems in the future. Regular cleanings are a simple yet powerful way to keep your teeth and gums in top shape. But what exactly is a routine cleaning, and why is it so important? Let’s take a closer look! What Is a Routine Cleaning (Prophylaxis)? A routine cleaning, or prophylaxis, is a professional cleaning procedure performed by a dental hygienist or dentist. The purpose is to remove plaque, tartar (hardened plaque), and stains from your teeth. This helps to: Prevent gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis) Avoid cavities and tooth decay Freshen your breath Improve the overall appearance of your smile Unlike regular brushing and flossing, which help control plaque on the surfaces of your teeth, a routine cleaning targets areas that are difficult to reach, especially below the gumline. Why Are Routine Cleanings So Important? You might think that brushing and flossing at home are enough to keep your teeth clean—but professional cleanings are still essential. Here’s why: 1. Plaque and Tartar Build-Up Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that naturally forms on your teeth throughout the day. If not removed through brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar, which can only be removed by a dental professional. Over time, tartar buildup can lead to gum disease and cavities. 2. Prevent Gum Disease One of the biggest risks of poor oral hygiene is gum disease. It begins with gingivitis (the earliest stage) but can progress to more severe conditions, like periodontitis, if left untreated. Routine cleanings remove the bacteria and plaque that cause gum disease, helping to keep your gums healthy and preventing tooth loss. 3. Cavity Prevention Even if you don’t notice any problems, small cavities or spots of tooth decay may be forming beneath the gumline. During a routine cleaning, your dental hygienist will check for early signs of cavities, allowing your dentist to treat any issues before they become more serious. 4. A Brighter Smile Routine cleanings help remove stains from coffee, tea, and certain foods, giving you a brighter, more polished smile. Regular visits to The Dental 360 can make a noticeable difference in the appearance of your teeth. What to Expect During a Routine Cleaning at The Dental 360 When you come in for a routine cleaning at The Dental 360, you can expect the following: Examination: Our team will first examine your teeth and gums, checking for signs of gum disease, cavities, or other issues. X-rays may be taken if necessary. Plaque and Tartar Removal: Using specialized tools, your dental hygienist will carefully remove plaque and tartar from your teeth—especially around the gumline, where buildup is most common. Polishing: After all the plaque and tartar are removed, your teeth will be polished with a special toothpaste to leave them smooth and shiny. Flossing: Finally, your hygienist will floss between your teeth to remove any leftover debris, leaving your mouth feeling fresh. Oral Health Education: At The Dental 360, we take the time to give you personalized oral care advice to keep your teeth and gums healthy between visits. How Often Should You Get a Routine Cleaning? For most people, we recommend visiting The Dental 360 for a routine cleaning every six months. However, if you have specific oral health concerns—such as gum disease, dry mouth, or a high cavity risk—you may need more frequent cleanings. Benefits of Routine Cleanings Healthier Gums: Routine cleanings help prevent gum disease, keeping your gums firm and pink. Fresh Breath: Removing plaque and bacteria helps eliminate bad breath caused by decay or gum disease. Long-Term Savings: Preventing serious oral health problems with regular cleanings can save you time, money, and discomfort in the future. Overall Health: Oral health is linked to overall health—routine cleanings can reduce the risk of other health problems like heart disease and diabetes. Schedule Your Routine Cleaning at The Dental 360 Don’t wait until there’s a problem—routine cleanings are one of the best ways to keep your teeth and gums healthy for life. At The Dental 360, we’re dedicated to making preventive care convenient and comfortable for all of our patients. Ready to keep your smile sparkling?👉 Book your next routine cleaning today and take the first step toward a healthier, brighter smile.