It's a fact that some people like to procrastinate. But when what this action involves postponing important health care needs, like dental cleanings, seeking motivation is in order to correct the problem. If you are one of the thousands of people who routinely wait too long between cleanings, here are five very motivating facts to help you cure your procrastination and take charge of your dental health. 

1. Helps protect an attractive, healthy smile 

Dental care providers know that plaque causes tooth decay, and contributes to the loss of healthy teeth. This off-white film builds up on teeth and requires a comprehensive regimen of brushing, flossing, and professional dental cleanings to remove it. Once removed, teeth are able to remain strong and healthy longer.

2. Helps ward off gum disease 

Another cause of tooth loss is gum disease, which can hasten the spread of plaque and even cause teeth to feel loose or fall out. By obtaining regularly scheduled dental cleanings, however, plaque is less likely to move lower on teeth and invite a serious threat of gum disease.

3. Helps you enjoy fresher breath 

When plaque builds up on your teeth, it can also create or worsen bad breath issues. This happens because the coating of plaque can trap decaying food particles and odors from strong-smelling foods, like garlic and coffee. When excess plaque is removed regularly, these food particles and odors are cleaned away, leaving your mouth, teeth, and breath feeling cleaner and fresher. 

4. Helps you save money

Dental implants, dentures, crowns, and fillings are just a few of the treatments dental care providers can use to replace missing or damaged teeth. But these procedures can be costly. Luckily, all these procedures are far less likely to be needed when patients are careful to maintain a regular schedule of preventative dental care, including cleanings. 

In addition to saving money by needing less dental work, patients who have dental insurance can often receive dental cleanings for free. Dental insurance providers know that good dental care is the most important step their customers can take to keep their teeth healthy and help avoid expensive dental repairs. 

5. Helps you protect your health

Your teeth are not the only parts of your body that can be endangered by failing to remove plaque buildup. In fact, plaque is now thought to increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and some other serious health issues. By removing plaque regularly through good oral hygiene at home and periodic professional cleanings by your dental care provider, you may actually be setting yourself up for better physical health. 

To learn more, contact a dental office like Family Dentistry Of Woodstock.