When we believe we are doing all the right things with our dental hygiene at home we may convince ourselves that we can skip a dental cleaning, or two. But as you'll read below a cleaning regimen is simply incomplete without dental cleanings at your dentist's office. To learn a lot more about the benefits get in contact with your Westminster, CO, dentist Dr. Alexander Smith of The Family Dentist.

The Battle Against Plaque

The reason why we brush and floss every day is to eliminate the plaque that daily builds on our teeth. It is that sticky film that builds there and it is made up of millions of bacteria.

This bacteria produces acids that can harm the enamel on our teeth and our gums as it feeds upon the sugars we consume.

But even our best efforts can leave some plaque behind. This is especially true if you suffer from spacing issues that create crevices where plaque can hide. Whatever we don't manage to brush or floss away can harden into tartar thanks to the minerals in our saliva, making it much more difficult to remove.

Helping in the Fight

Tartar can typically only be removed at your dentist's office, alongside any leftover plaque, and this is done during your scheduled biannual cleanings. Which, alongside good hygiene habits at home, can help you prevent cavities and gum disease.

During the checkup portion of the visit, your dentist examines your teeth, and if you have been diligent about coming in your doctor can help you prevent common dental problems. Or treat them in their early stages when these can still be managed with far less invasive treatments.

Dental Cleanings in Westminster, CO

Dental cleanings can help you stay on top of your dental hygiene and can help prevent complications and potentially costly procedures. So if it's been some time since your last visit make an appointment today with Dr. Smith of The Family Dentist in Westminster, CO, by dialing (303) 427-8690.