Build up of plaque on your teeth also may lead to gum disease. Periodontal or Gum Disease is the major cause of tooth loss in adults. As gum disease progresses in your mouth, plaque invades the supporting jaw bone which causes your teeth to loosen and eventually fall out.

Plaque is the leading cause of tooth decay. It is an acidic substance that eats away the enamel of the tooth. If plaque is left to build up on your teeth, it can lead to cavities.

Oral prophylaxis and good oral hygiene work hand in hand to prevent persistent bad breath. An Oral Prophylaxis, in addition to brushing and flossing, keeps your mouth healthy and odor-free.

An Oral Prophylaxis also removes stains caused by drinking coffee, tea, wine or smoking tobacco. This is the reason why your teeth looks whiter after having your dental cleaning with your dentist.

Keeping your teeth clean and healthy with good oral hygiene and regular dental cleaning can help lower your risk for some diseases. As established in medical studies, there is a strong link between oral health and the development of systemic diseases which can develop from the accumulation of bacteria in your mouth.

 It has also been established in studies that your mouth is a window of your overall health. Hence, your dentist may actually be the first healthcare provider that will be able to detect signs and symptoms of medical conditions that are manifested in your oral cavity during a routine oral exam.