what are the pros and cons of dental cleaning?

Dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis or teeth cleaning, is a routine dental procedure that involves the removal of plaque, tartar, and other debris from the teeth. It is recommended that people have their teeth cleaned by a dental professional every six months to maintain good oral health. However, like any medical procedure, dental cleaning has its pros and cons. In this article, we will explore both the advantages and disadvantages of dental cleaning.

Pros of Dental Cleaning

1. Prevents Tooth Decay and Gum Disease

Dental cleaning is an essential step in preventing tooth decay and gum disease. When plaque and tartar build up on the teeth, they can cause cavities, gum inflammation, and even tooth loss. Regular dental cleaning helps to remove these harmful substances, reducing the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

1. Brighter and Whiter Teeth

Dental cleaning can also help to make your teeth brighter and whiter. When plaque and tartar build-up on the teeth, they can cause discoloration and staining. By removing these substances during dental cleaning, your teeth will look brighter and whiter.

1. Early Detection of Dental Problems

Dental cleaning can help to detect dental problems early on, such as cavities and gum disease. This is because dental professionals are trained to identify and diagnose dental issues during the cleaning process. By catching these problems early, you can avoid more extensive and expensive dental procedures down the road.

1. Fresh Breath

Dental cleaning can also help to freshen your breath. When plaque and tartar build-up on the teeth, they can cause bad breath. By removing these substances during dental cleaning, your breath will be fresher and cleaner.

Cons of Dental Cleaning

1. Cost

One of the biggest cons of dental cleaning is the cost. Depending on where you live and the type of dental insurance you have, dental cleaning can be quite expensive. This can be a barrier for some people, especially those without insurance or with limited coverage.

1. Discomfort

Dental cleaning can be uncomfortable for some people, especially those with sensitive teeth or gums. During the cleaning process, dental professionals use specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth. This can cause some discomfort, although it is usually temporary.

1. Gum Irritation

In some cases, dental cleaning can cause gum irritation. This is because the cleaning process can be quite invasive, especially if you have a lot of plaque and tartar build-up. However, this irritation is usually temporary and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

1. Tooth Sensitivity

Another potential con of dental cleaning is tooth sensitivity. This can happen if the cleaning process removes too much enamel from the teeth. However, this is rare and is usually only a concern for people with weak or damaged enamel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, dental cleaning is an essential part of maintaining good oral health. It can help to prevent tooth decay and gum disease, make your teeth brighter and whiter, and detect dental problems early on. However, dental cleaning also has its cons, such as the cost, discomfort, gum irritation, and tooth sensitivity. Ultimately, the decision to undergo dental cleaning should be made in consultation with your dentist, taking into account your individual needs and circumstances. If you are concerned about the pros and cons of dental cleaning, be sure to talk to your dentist about your options.