The Dentists Take

In the age of DIY solutions and the fact that Amazon sells a product for just about anything, many of us are tempted to take dental care into our own hands, literally. With an array of teeth cleaning products available on Amazon, from electric toothbrushes, to plaque and tartar removers to water flossers, it’s never been more tempting to skip the dental hygienist and do your own at-home teeth cleanings. But how does this self-directed approach stack up against the quality and safety of professional cleanings at The Crossings Dental? 

Let’s dive in.

The DIY Approach: At-Home Teeth Cleanings

Online marketplaces like Amazon offer a plethora of dental hygiene products, promising to replicate the clean feeling you get after a professional cleaning. Electric toothbrushes with advanced features, vibrating plaque removers, polishes and toothpastes along with high-quality dental floss, and mouthwashes are all easily accessible and can play a significant role in your daily oral hygiene routine. While these products are beneficial for maintenance, they lack the ability to provide the deep cleaning that professional equipment and expertise can offer.

Pros:

• Convenience: At-home care can be done on your schedule, making it easier to maintain consistent oral hygiene.
• Cost-Effective: Initial investments in tools like electric toothbrushes may save money in the short term.

Cons:

• Limited Effectiveness: At-home products cannot remove tartar buildup, which requires professional tools.
• Potential for Damage: Incorrect use of at-home whitening kits or harsh products can lead to enamel damage or increased sensitivity.

The Professional Advantage: Cleanings at The Crossings Dental

Visiting The Crossings Dental for professional teeth cleanings brings a level of care and safety that simply cannot be matched by at-home methods. Our team uses specialized tools to gently remove plaque and tartar buildup, reducing the risk of gum disease and cavities. Plus, regular professional evaluations help catch potential issues early, ensuring your mouth stays healthier, longer.

Pros:

• Comprehensive Cleaning: Only professional tools can effectively remove tartar and hard-to-reach plaque.
• Customized Care: Dental professionals assess your specific needs and provide tailored advice and treatments.
• Preventive Health: Regular cleanings and exams can prevent more serious issues down the line.

Cons:

• Appointment Required: You’ll need to schedule visits and possibly take time off work or other activities.
• Cost: Depending on your insurance coverage, there may be out-of-pocket expenses.

The Best of Both Worlds

While maintaining a diligent at-home cleaning routine is vital for everyday oral hygiene, the importance of professional cleanings cannot be overstated. At The Crossings Dental, we ensure your dental health is thoroughly managed with the utmost care and expertise, something at-home care alone cannot provide.

Maintenance Tips Between Professional Cleanings

To keep your smile bright and healthy between visits to your dental hygienist, consider these five tips:

1. Brush and Floss Regularly: Twice-a-day brushing and daily flossing are non-negotiable for removing plaque.
2. Use Fluoride Toothpaste: It helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay.
3. Limit Sugary and Acidic Foods: These can erode enamel and lead to cavities.
4. Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps wash away food particles and bacteria.
5. Chew Sugar-Free Gum: It can stimulate saliva production, neutralizing acid and cleaning teeth

Embracing both professional dental care and responsible at-home practices is the key to long-term oral health. Not only will you get excellent results you can count on, keeping your teeth and gums healthy significantly decreases the likelihood you will develop more serious issues that could cost a lot of money to repair.  At The Crossings Dental, we’re committed to guiding you through both, we want you to maintain excellent oral health at home, but let us partner with you ensuring your smile remains vibrant and healthy for years to come.