Routine dental cleanings are critical to maintaining oral health. If all food remnants are not removed around the gums, gingivitis(redness and swelling of the gums) occurs. This can proceed to periodontal disease which involves deterioration of the attachment of the tooth to the bone, ultimately leading to looseness and then loss of teeth. Periodontal disease can be painless and you can be unaware of its presence. It is only through routine dental examinations that these destructive diseases are diagnosied.