Teeth Cleanings Benefit More Than Just the Teeth

The tartar that accumulates on the teeth houses bacteria, these bacteria break down the enamel, which is the protective coating on the teeth. Once this coating is damaged, tooth decay results. As the bacteria multiply, periodontal disease (aka gum disease) develops and the gingival tissue (aka gum tissue) sustains damage, allowing bacteria and plaque to enter the bloodstream. It is the introduction of plaque and bacteria to the bloodstream that leads to problems in other areas of the body. While biannual teeth cleanings (aka dental cleanings) are vital to the health of the teeth, most people are unaware of how important these cleanings are for other parts of the body.

Teeth Cleanings Are Vital to Maintaining Overall Health

During a teeth cleaning procedure, tartar and plaque are removed from the teeth, which helps prevent gum disease. If gum disease does develop, bacteria and plaque may enter the bloodstream, which may result in heart problems, diabetes-related issues and hypertension. Therefore, having biannual teeth cleanings today can decrease the likelihood of health problems tomorrow.

Without regularly scheduled teeth cleanings, patients may:

Experience Complications Associated with Diabetes

People who have diabetes are two to three times more likely to develop periodontal disease (aka gum disease), which can affect an individual’s ability to control his or her blood sugar levels. This inability to control sugar levels can lead to diabetes-related complications.

Increase Their Likelihood of Developing Heart Disease

As gum disease progresses, the gingival tissue becomes tender and bleeds easily: Bleeding indicates an opening in the tissue. This opening provides a way for bacteria to enter the bloodstream. Studies show that once these bacteria enter the bloodstream the risk of developing cardiovascular disease rises.

Raise Their Risk of Suffering a Heart Attack

Once bacteria damage the gingival tissue, the bacteria enter the bloodstream and travel throughout the body. These bacteria can trigger clot development, which increases the risk of an individual suffering a heart attack.

Increase Their Risk of Experiencing a Stroke

Studies indicate there is an independent link between periodontal disease and stroke. Periodontal disease leads to bleeding gums, allowing bacteria and plaque to enter the bloodstream. As the plaque builds up in the arteries, the blood vessels narrow. This narrowing of the vessels negatively affects blood flow and the bacteria that enter the bloodstream can cause clots to form.

Prevent dental issues and health problems by having your biannual teeth cleanings. If you need a dental cleaning, contact Dr. Andy Tang today. Dr. Tang and his team focus on providing each patient with personalized, high-quality dental care.

To schedule teeth cleaning appointment, contact Dr. Andy Tang’s office today at 562-498-2354. The office is located at 5100 East Anaheim Road in Long Beach, California.