Why Hygiene?

5 Reasons to See your Dental Hygienist

 

Everyone knows it is important to see your dental hygienist at least twice a year or, for some with more severe periodontal disease, every three months.  However, many people tend to put oral hygiene on the back burner, leaving their hygienists lonely and worried.  There are many reasons maintaining good oral hygiene is important, and Drs. Versman, Heller, and Beckman want to review a handful. 

 

1.       Detect Cancer:   Oral Cancer is a growing concern among Americans, including our Denver patients.  In 2010, about 5.1 billion dollars were spent on cancer research with growing figures each year.  This large budget shows the great concern to cure cancers like oral cancer.  Dr. Versman, Dr. Heller, and Dr. Beckman urge our patients in Aurora to stop in for their cleanings to detect cancer sooner and to treat and cure more easily.  At each dental cleaning our hygienist and doctors examine each patient for not only dental caries, gum disease, and other dental defects, but also for sign/symptoms of cancer.  The opportunity to save our patients’ life with a routine cancer screening is never missed. 

2.       Prevent and/or treat Periodontal Disease:  Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is caused by a build of tartar around the teeth.  As tartar and plaque congregate, teeth, gums, and bone become damaged.  Signs of gum disease are bleeding, swelling, and redness.  Dr. KenVersman, Dr. Doug Heller, and Dr. Eric Beckman are specialists in treating gum disease, and a big treatment for this disease is consistent and more frequent hygiene cleanings to clear away tartar and allow the gums to reattach to the teeth.  Although regular hygiene maintenance at home is suggested, home care is not sufficient enough to cure gum disease.  Periodontal disease is the #1 reason for tooth loss and the need for dental implants, but our hygienists at Periodontal Associates are the best way to help prevent the need for implants or help keep implants from failing. 

3.       Prevent bad breath:   Are you afraid of social events because you cannot get your breath under control?  Regular hygiene appointments are your answer, not gum or breath spray!  Chronic bad breath is caused by dehydration and bacteria in your mouth.  About 85% of those who suffer from unpleasant mouth odors are victims of dental problems and inadequate oral hygiene. Don’t let this be you!  Michelle and Carolyn not only help our Aurora patients stay healthy, but they clean deeper to clear away stubborn bacteria that are causing your halitosis (bad breath). 

4.       Live longer:  Research studies have shown that there is a strong association between periodontal disease and other chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, pregnancy complications and respiratory disease.  Bacteria in the gums have an easy route to the blood stream.  The blood stream is then able to transfer these harmful substances to main organs in the body.   Halting the progression of periodontal disease and maintaining excellent standards of oral hygiene will not only reduce the risk of gum disease and bone loss, but also reduce the chances of developing other serious illnesses. 

5.       Use dental insurance benefits:  So after reading all of these GREAT and lifesaving reasons to see Periodontal Associates for your next and probably over-due cleaning, it is great news to know that dental insurance will pay for it!  Many of those who are insured waste away their benefits at the end of every year, as many patients do not come in for their twice a year cleanings.  Missing the opportunity to have your teeth professionally cleaned is then a waste of money.  So be nice to your smile and bank account.  Come see Drs. Versman, Heller, and Beckman to enjoy fresh breath, healthy gums, and use your covered cleanings now to avoid more costly dental treatment in the future. 

Do yourself a favor and save your life and pocketbook by scheduling your hygiene appointment right now with Michelle or Carolyn at Periodontal Associates.   Our patients around the Denver metro area enjoy the benefits of regular hygiene cleanings every 3-6 months depending on the level of periodontitis.  If you have any more questions or concerns, do not hesitate to call us at (303) 755-4500, click here for an appointment, or visit our website at www.periodontalhealth.com.