How Often Should You Get Your Teeth Cleaned at the Dentist?
Have you ever wondered how often you should visit the dentist for teeth cleaning? First, let’s consider why it’s crucial to have your teeth cleaned by a professional. Over time, even with diligent brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth. These substances are tough enemies for your oral health. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can lead to gum disease and cavities if not removed regularly. Tartar, which is hardened plaque, can form below and above the gum line and can only be removed with professional dental tools.
Now, you might be doing a great job with your daily dental care routine, but these professional cleanings are your best defense against gum disease and tooth decay. They also provide your dentist an opportunity to catch potential issues early, possibly saving you from more complex and expensive treatments down the line.
How Often Should You Visit?
The general recommendation for most people is to visit the dentist for a professional cleaning and checkup every six months. This frequency supports the best outcomes in maintaining dental health and preventing problems before they start.
However, some people might need to visit more frequently. If you have a history of periodontal disease, you’re in a different boat. Periodontal disease requires careful management to prevent its progression. In such cases, your dentist might suggest cleanings every three to four months. This ensures close monitoring and quick action if any signs of disease recurrence appear.
What Happens During a Dental Cleaning?
When you visit the dentist for a cleaning, the procedure typically includes several steps that go beyond what you can do at home with your toothbrush and floss. Here’s what usually happens:
- Examination: Your dentist or hygienist will start with an examination of your entire mouth. This is to look for any signs of trouble such as inflammation, cavities, or other oral health concerns.
- Scaling: Next, they use special tools to remove tartar from your teeth. This process, known as scaling, involves scraping off tartar from above and below the gum line.
- Polishing: After your teeth are tartar-free, they will be polished. Polishing helps remove any surface stains on your teeth.
- Flossing: Finally, your teeth will be flossed to remove any leftover plaque or debris between your teeth.
This comprehensive cleaning not only helps improve the health of your teeth but also gives you a fresher breath and a brighter smile.
Factors That Influence Cleaning Frequency
Think about your own dental health and lifestyle. Factors that may require more frequent cleanings include:
- Smoking increases your likelihood of gum disease.
- Diabetes, which can make gum disease worse.
- Ongoing oral health issues, such as a tendency to develop cavities or plaque buildup.
If you fall into any of these categories, or if you’re dealing with ongoing dental issues, you might benefit from more frequent cleanings.
FAQ
What if I have braces?
If you wear braces, keeping your teeth clean can be a bit more challenging, so your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings to prevent plaque buildup in hard-to-reach areas.
Is it ever okay to go less frequently than six months?
For some individuals with excellent oral health and no history of cavities or gum disease, your dentist might extend the interval between cleanings. However, this should only be done based on a dentist’s recommendation.
Can children follow the same cleaning schedule as adults?
Yes, children should also see the dentist for cleanings every six months. Early visits help prevent cavities and teach children about the importance of good oral hygiene.
Are there signs I should go more often?
Yes, if you notice any of the following, you might need to increase your visits:
- Frequent bad breath
- Bleeding gums while brushing or flossing
- Loose teeth
- Receding gums
What happens if I skip dental cleanings?
Skipping dental cleanings can lead to advanced plaque and tartar buildup, which in turn may cause cavities, gum disease, and even tooth loss. Regular cleanings are key to preventing these issues.
