If you've ever thought about skipping your next dental cleaning, you're not alone. With busy schedules and no obvious tooth pain, it’s easy to assume everything is fine. But routine cleanings are far more important than you might think — and they do a lot more than just give you a bright smile.
Here, Dr. Ed Trizzino and his team at Smiles of Atlanta in Atlanta, Georgia, explain why teeth cleanings are so important and what might be holding you back from scheduling your next one.
There isn’t just one reason to schedule your cleaning. There are many! Your dental cleaning can:
During your cleaning, our team checks for early signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and even oral cancer. Catching issues early means treatments are often simpler — and less expensive. Skipping cleanings can let small problems grow into painful, costly ones.
Even if you're a rock star when it comes to brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can still build up in hard-to-reach areas. Professional cleanings use tools that remove stubborn buildup before it leads to cavities or gum disease.
Let’s be honest: Cleanings feel great. They leave your mouth fresh, your teeth polished, and your breath noticeably better. (Plaque and tartar are big sources of bad breath!) Plus, regular cleanings can help remove surface stains for a whiter smile.
Your dental cleaning isn’t just about your mouth. It impacts your overall health. A healthy mouth can help protect your body, too.
For example, gum disease has been linked to serious conditions like dementia and heart disease. The best way to reduce those risks is to maintain good oral hygiene and stay consistent with your cleanings.
Sometimes, the biggest benefit is knowing everything looks good. Getting a professional checkup gives you confidence that you’re on track with your dental health and doing what’s best for your long-term dental wellness.
Even though cleanings are an important part of your long-term dental health, we understand there may be things that keep you from scheduling your visit.
Dental anxiety is more common than you might think. Whether it’s due to a fear of pain, past bad experiences, or just general nervousness, booking a cleaning may feel overwhelming. About 70% of people with dental anxiety skip their cleanings and schedule an appointment only when pain pops up.
Our team understands these concerns and creates a calm, supportive environment to help you feel at ease from the moment you walk in.
About 19% of Americans skip dental care due to lack of insurance or affordability. At our practice, Dr. Trizzino believes no one should have to miss an appointment because of cost. That’s why we have many options available.
We accept dental insurance for treatments over $150, so you pay only what your plan doesn’t cover. Payment is easy with cash, checks, or major credit/debit cards.
Military, police, and firefighters receive a 10% discount as our thanks.
But what if your cleaning reveals that you need additional work, such as a root canal or a crown? For complex cases, we offer 90-day, interest-free plans and CareCredit financing for up to five years. If needed, we can also phase treatments to make care more manageable.
If you’ve never had a dental cleaning or it has been a while, not knowing what to expect can be intimidating. Cleanings are straightforward, gentle, and focused on preventing more serious issues. We walk you through every step so you feel informed and comfortable.
The bottom line is that your routine cleaning helps prevent serious problems, protect your oral health, and keep your smile looking its best. If it’s been more than six months since your last visit (or one of your kids’ visits), it’s time to schedule one.
Give us a call at 770-407-8459 today or use our online booking system.
