Whether you’re 17 or 70, there’s no denying that the health of your smile is intrinsically linked to your overall wellness. That’s why we recommend scheduling routine teeth cleanings with Dr. Lee—our dentist in Lebanon, IN. help reduce your risk of gum disease and other oral health issues. Not to mention, they can help you feel more confident about your smile.
Here’s what you need to know about and the many benefits they bring to your overall health.
Lower Your Risk of Gum Disease
Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease, begins with plaque and tartar buildup. Left untreated, it can progress to cause tooth loss, but the consequences don’t stop there.
Research has shown that gum disease is linked to several systemic health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and even stroke.
During routine dental cleanings, our dental hygienists thoroughly remove plaque and tartar, helping to prevent gum disease and the complications that can arise from it.
By maintaining healthy gums, you reduce the risk of inflammation and bacteria entering your bloodstream, which can lead to other health issues. Regular cleanings are an easy yet effective way to protect yourself from more than just oral problems.
Diagnose Dental Issues Quickly
Other benefits of teeth cleanings include the early detection of oral health problems. Our dentist in Lebanon, IN, will examine your mouth for signs of cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and other conditions during your cleaning appointments.
Catching these issues early often means easier and less expensive treatment, which can prevent more serious health concerns down the line.
For instance, early-stage gum disease can be reversed with professional teeth cleanings and improved oral hygiene habits, while later stages may require scaling and root planing. Similarly, early detection of oral cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Absorb More Nutrients
Dental health plays a crucial role in digestion. The process of digestion starts in the mouth, where food is broken down into smaller particles by chewing and mixing with saliva.
If your teeth are not healthy or you’re missing teeth, it can be difficult to chew food properly. This can result in poor digestion and inadequate nutrient absorption, leading to malnutrition over time.
By maintaining routine dental cleanings, you help ensure that your teeth remain strong and functional, allowing you to chew properly and support your digestive health.
Strengthen Your Immune System
Your immune system works hard to fight off infections, including those in your mouth. When you neglect regular cleanings, your immune system has to work overtime to combat bacteria from plaque and tartar buildup. This added strain can weaken your immune response over time, making you more susceptible to illness.
Regular dental cleanings reduce the bacterial load in your mouth, allowing your immune system to focus on other challenges and keeping you healthier overall.
Improve Mental Health
Good oral health can also positively influence your mental and emotional well-being. Having clean, healthy teeth boosts your confidence and encourages you to smile more, which has been shown to reduce stress and improve mood.
On the other hand, dental problems like bad breath, tooth loss, or stained teeth can negatively affect self-esteem and lead to anxiety or social withdrawal. Regular cleanings help you maintain a bright, healthy smile, contributing to your overall emotional well-being.
Book a Teeth Cleaning Appointment
Dr. Dwight B. Lee is proud to serve as your trusted dentist in Lebanon, IN. To schedule a teeth cleaning appointment, please call Dwight B. Lee Family & Cosmetic Dentistry at (765) 482-2400. You may also fill out our online contact form and a member of our team will reach out to you soon.