Why Do I Need To Do Dental Cleanings?

If you’re not a fan of seeing the dentist for six-month dental cleanings and oral exams, you’re not alone. But seeing our dentists in South Philly twice a year for a dental cleaning is essential for your oral health, and in this blog, we’ll explain why. 

Your Oral Health Impacts Your Overall Health

Obviously, you want to avoid cavities and gum disease because they can cause serious oral health issues, as well as pain and discomfort. These oral health issues also require costly treatments, so avoiding them helps you save money.

But that’s not all. Your oral health impacts your overall health, too. Gum disease, for example, can raise your risk of heart disease or a stroke, particularly if you have issues like high blood pressure or a history of heart issues in your family.

Because of this, with regular cleanings and oral exams at Mestichelli Barnes Dental Associates, you can protect both your oral health and your overall health. So make sure your oral health is a priority, and see us for regular preventative appointments.

Understanding The Purpose of Dental Cleanings 

The purpose of dental cleanings is twofold. First, a cleaning is a “prophylactic,” meaning it can help prevent further dental issues. Your hygienist can clean your teeth more thoroughly than you can at home to remove plaque and tartar, which reduces your risk of gum disease and cavities.

More importantly, though, dental cleanings function as an opportunity for Dr. Barnes or Dr. Mestichelli to diagnose potential oral health issues, and provide you with advice or follow-up treatments to avoid more serious problems.

For example, if Dr. Barnes notices a very small cavity in one of your teeth during a six-month visit, he may recommend a fluoride treatment and better at-home oral hygiene to keep it from getting worse. But if you skip your visit, the cavity may get worse by the next time you see a dentist, and you may need a filling.

Why Do Some People Need More Frequent Dental Cleanings?

In most cases, you don’t need to come to Mestichelli Barnes Dental Associates more than twice a year. Six-month visits are ideal for most patients.

However, there are some cases where you may need more frequent cleanings. For example, if you have gum disease, you may need a “periodontal maintenance” cleaning every 3 months to keep your condition from progressing, and to keep your mouth healthy.

This is relatively rare, though. As long as you have a relatively healthy mouth in Philadelphia, you will likely only need to see the dentist once every six months. 

Schedule Your Cleaning Today At Mestichelli Barnes Dental Associates

If you’re overdue for a dental cleaning in Philadelphia, the team at Mestichelli Barnes Dental Associates is here to help. Contact us online or give us a call at (215) 334-2000 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Bill Mestichelli or Dr. Michael Barnes, and get expert care from the team at our office. We’re always accepting new patients in the Philadelphia area.