
We all know we should see the dentist every six months, but do you know why? It's not just to check for cavities. Professional cleanings are the single most effective way to prevent expensive and painful dental problems down the road.
You can remove plaque (a sticky film of bacteria) at home with brushing and flossing. However, if plaque sits on your teeth for even 24-48 hours, it hardens into tartar (calculus). Tartar is like cement—you cannot brush it off. Only a dental professional with specialized tools can remove it.
If tartar isn't removed, it leads to gum inflammation (gingivitis) and eventually gum disease (periodontitis), which causes bone loss and tooth loss.
Think of your cleaning as an "oil change" for your mouth. It keeps the system running smoothly and prevents the engine from breaking down.