5 Long Term Consequences You Should Expect If You Don’t Regularly Visit Your Dentist For Professional Teeth Cleaning Services

At Kelli Brady DDS in New York, NY and Norwood, New Jersey, Dr. Kelli Brady and her dedicated team are committed to helping patients achieve and maintain optimal oral health. One of the most effective ways to safeguard your smile is by scheduling regular professional teeth cleanings. While many people understand the immediate benefits of teeth cleanings, such as fresher breath and whiter teeth, the long-term consequences of neglecting this essential service can be severe. Here are five oral health conditions that can surface due to not getting regular professional teeth cleanings.

1. Gum Disease (Periodontal Disease). Neglecting regular cleanings allows plaque and tartar to build up along the gum line, creating the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive. Over time, this can lead to gum inflammation (gingivitis), which, if untreated, progresses to periodontal disease. Gum disease can cause bleeding gums, receding gum tissue, bone loss, and eventually, tooth loss. Worse yet, studies have linked periodontal disease to systemic health issues such as heart disease, diabetes, and pre-term birth.
2. Tooth Decay and Cavities. Without regular cleanings, plaque and tartar accumulate on the surfaces of your teeth, creating a substrate for bacteria to thrive on. Bacteria release acids as a by-product of their metabolism that erode enamel and cause cavities. While small cavities can often be treated with fillings, untreated decay can lead to larger problems like infections or abscesses, which may require root canals or tooth extractions. Regular cleanings help prevent this cycle by removing plaque before it can cause significant damage.
3. Bad Breath (Halitosis). Chronic bad breath is often a result of plaque buildup and food particles and bacteria trapped between teeth and under the gumline. Professional cleanings remove these odor-causing bacteria, ensuring a healthier and more pleasant-smelling mouth. Without regular care, halitosis can become a persistent issue that mints and mouthwash can’t fully address.
4. Tooth Loss. Advanced gum disease and severe tooth decay are two leading causes of tooth loss—both of which can be prevented with regular cleanings. When left untreated, bacteria can destroy the supporting structures of the teeth, including bone and gum tissue. Losing teeth affects your ability to chew and speak, not to mention your facial structure and self-confidence.
5. Oral Cancer. While oral cancer isn’t directly caused by skipping cleanings, regular visits to your dentist for cleanings provide an opportunity for early detection. During routine exams, dentists are trained to spot early signs of oral cancer, such as unusual lesions or discolorations. Early detection is critical for successful treatment, and regular cleanings ensure you’re being monitored for this potentially life-threatening condition.

At Kelli Brady DDS, prevention is the cornerstone of good oral health. Regular professional teeth cleanings not only keep your smile looking its best but also protect you from serious oral health issues down the road. Dr. Brady and her team are here to provide gentle, thorough cleanings that leave your mouth feeling fresh and healthy. Don’t let neglect lead to long-term oral health problems. Contact Kelli Brady DDS, in Norwood, New Jersey, at (201) 806-6866 or in New York, NY, at (646) 692-0227. You may also visit www.kellibradydds.com to schedule your professional teeth cleaning appointment. Let us help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile for years!

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