5. Most Dental plans have low or no copayments/coinsurance for routine preventive care such as dental cleanings and checkups every six months. If you take advantage of your benefits, you’ll save money in the long run by avoiding more costly dental procedures that can result from poor oral hygiene.

2. Tobacco use or drinking coffee, tea and other beverages – can cause tooth staining. Certain medications may also discolor teeth. Regular teeth cleanings by your hygienist, however, can often remove these external stains. In addition to removing plaque and tartar during your cleaning, your hygienist will also polish your teeth to a beautiful whiter and brighter shine.

4. More and more evidence shows a connection between a person’s oral and overall health. Recent studies have linked heart attacks and strokes to gum disease. Although no causal relationships have been discovered, a dental cleaning every six months to keep your teeth and gums healthy could possibly reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. In addition, if you have regular oral examinations, your dentist may be the first health care provider to diagnose a health problem in its early stages.

3. Persistent bad breath (halitosis) can result from poor oral hygiene, periodontal disease, food stuck between teeth, an unclean tongue, unclean dentures, even oral carcinomas, throat infections and medications can contribute to this condition. Good oral hygiene is essential in preventing many of these conditions which, in turn, may prevent bad breath. Regular checkups and cleanings are the best way to make sure that you are maintaining good oral hygiene.

1. Gum disease is a bacterial infection caused by plaque -a bacterial film that sticks to your teeth- and if not removed can turn into tartar, which can be difficult to remove on your own. The bacterial toxins irritate the gums and cause inflammation and gingivitis. If the infection persists, then it can progress to periodontal disease, which affects the underlying bone support. The affected teeth may loosen and eventually fall out. Since gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, regular dental exams and cleanings, and brushing and flossing in between visits are vital to keeping your teeth.