A dental cleaning is an essential part of maintaining good oral health. When performed by a general dentist, like Dr. Ben Johnson of Johnson Family Dental, it offers an array of health benefits, including good gum health and optimal overall health. It may be surprising to learn that a simple dental cleaning can be so beneficial. Becoming familiar with these advantages can be helpful when considering contacting our family dental practice in Paducah, KY.

How a dental cleaning can benefit health

Below are just a few benefits associated with dental cleanings from a general dentist.

Gum health

The health of the gums relies heavily on routine dental cleanings with a general family dentist. During your appointment, your dentist cleans along the gum lines, which is crucial for removing plaque and tartar buildup, both of which contribute to gum disease. When a routine dental cleaning is done at least twice a year, the gums are much more likely to remain in good health.

Tooth health

An obvious but important benefit of a dental cleaning is that the teeth are much more likely to remain in optimal condition. Dental cleanings target the teeth, both the undersides and front sides, which ensures that any dangerous buildup is removed. Buildup on the teeth usually consists of plaque and tartar, both of which can lead to cavities and eventual decay. If plaque is removed on a regular basis during a dental cleaning then tartar is less likely to develop, which in turn results in healthy teeth that are free of tartar and fewer potential cavities.

Overall health

Having a dental cleaning does not just benefit oral health. It may be surprising for many to find out that healthy teeth and gums often results in a healthier body, which is one of the benefits of undergoing routine dental cleanings. When the teeth or gums are in bad shape due to cavities or gum disease, the infection can actually be transferred to the rest of the body. Infections can travel through the bloodstream and enter into other parts of the body, such as the heart.

Gum disease in particular is something that can easily be prevented through professional dental cleanings with a general family dentist. When dental cleanings are not done on a regular basis, gum disease may develop, which can put individuals at risk of developing other health conditions, such as heart disease or diabetes.

Cavities too can be prevented through routine dental cleanings. When cleanings are skipped or delayed, the teeth begin to suffer from plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to cavities. Cavities are infections in the teeth that cause decay over time. When the teeth begin to decay, the health of the jaw can suffer. Decay leads to missing teeth, which can result in a deteriorated jaw. Once the jaw starts to deteriorate, one’s entire craniofacial health can plummet.

Find out more about the benefits of a dental cleaning

When considering a dental cleaning, it can be helpful to consult with a general family dentist like Dr. Ben Johnson at Johnson Family Dental in Paducah. An evaluation can be done in order to identify further benefits. To find out more or to get started with a cleaning, give us a call at (270) 554-2432 or CLICK HERE to contact us. Johnson Family Dental is conveniently located at 2913 Lone Oak Rd in Paducah, KY. Our normal office hours are Monday through Thursday from 8am – 5pm.