How Often Do I Need a Teeth Cleaning?
Have you had your dental cleaning? Getting your teeth professionally cleaned by a dentist or hygienist on a regular basis is one of the most important things you can do to support good overall oral health. Dental cleaning should be part of your yearly checkup and must be done at least once a year. Even if you feel that your teeth are clean, it still is important for a dental professional to do a complete exam to ensure, especially since the initial stages of gum disease are usually hard to detect.
Why is Teeth Cleaning Necessary?
Teeth cleaning ensures that your teeth and gums are healthy. They are important in your overall oral care routine because these cleanings help remove plaque or tartar buildup that can pave the way for tooth decay and other oral issues. After all, studies have found that your oral health is connected to your overall health. If your teeth and gums are not in good health, bad oral health can lead to a host of health problems like diabetes and heart disease. Also, with regular cleaning, unsightly stains are removed on the teeth, so you feel more confident showing off your smile.
How is Teeth Cleaning Performed?
- Dental exam. Your dentist will give you a dental examination where they will inspect your teeth using a small mirror. Depending on your case, they might take x-rays of your teeth as well.
- Cleaning. To start the cleaning process, the dentist will scrape plaque off the teeth using a small scaler. This is followed by heavy-duty toothbrushing using an electric-powered toothbrush. During this part of the process, the dentist might also floss the teeth.
- Rinse and fluoride. Finally, your dentist will rinse out your mouth. They might also apply fluoride toothpaste to protect your teeth against tooth decay and cavities.
How Often are Dental Cleanings Needed?
Because every patient is different, the answer to this question will depend on your oral needs. There are patients who are more prone to developing dental problems, so it is necessary that they see a professional more often. On the other hand, some patients rarely experience any dental problems at all, so it is likely that they will have their teeth cleaned less frequently. According to general guidelines, patients should make an appointment for professional oral cleaning every six months. This is ideal for many people, but some need to come in every three months, and others only need to come in every nine or twelve months.
What to Do Between Dental Cleanings?
All dental patients need to give themselves good oral care to enjoy the benefits of a healthy mouth. It is also important that you thoroughly brush your teeth using a soft-bristled toothbrush with a fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day. You should floss your teeth at least once every day as well. If you can, finish your routine off with a quality mouthwash to keep bad bacteria at bay and freshen the breath.
When Did You Last Clean Your Teeth?
Are you already due for a dental cleaning? If you have not had one in the past year, you might want to make an appointment as soon as you can to ensure that your oral health is in tip-top shape. If you are too busy like most people these days, consider going to dental offices that have extended hours so they can accommodate your schedule. With these clinics, you can go before work, during your lunch break, after work, or during the weekend.
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