How Often Should I Get My Teeth Cleaned?
If it’s been a while since you’ve visited the dentist to have your teeth cleaned, you may be wondering how often you should have your teeth cleaned. The general rule of thumb is every six months, but that may not be what is best for you. We’ll cover why and how often you should have your teeth cleaned at a dental office.
A teeth cleaning is typically part of a dental check-up, which needs to be made at least once, if not twice, a year. Even if you feel that your teeth are clean, it really is necessary for a dental professional to perform a thorough examination in order to evaluate your oral health, since the beginning stages of gum disease are often hard to detect.
Why are dental cleanings necessary?
Teeth cleanings are important because they help to keep your teeth and gums healthy. They are a crucial part of your overall oral care routine as plaque or tartar buildup (which leads to problems, like tooth decay or gum disease) is physically removed, decreasing gum inflammation and preventing cavities. Research is finding more about the connection between your oral health and overall health. A healthier mouth leads to a healthier body.
If your teeth and gums are not in good health, it is possible for other medical conditions, like heart disease, diabetes to become more significant problems. Cleanings can also help to remove any unsightly stains on the teeth, boosting your confidence as you have a whiter, brighter smile.
How often are dental cleanings necessary?
Everyone’s needs are different and the frequency should be tailored specifically to you. Some people have a higher risk of developing dental issues, making it necessary for them to see a dental professional more frequently. Other people are low risk and will experience hardly any dental issues at all, which means they need to have their teeth cleaned less often.
The general guideline is that you should have a professional dental cleaning every six months. While this is ideal for most people, those who have a history of gum disease, or develop plaque and tartar buildup quickly will need to come in every three months. Some people with excellent oral hygiene who slowly accumulate buildup may only need to come in every nine or 12 months. Your dentist will be able to assess what is the best interval for your health.
What should I do in between dental cleanings?
If you want a healthy mouth, it is important for you to have a daily oral hygiene routine. Research shows that brushing teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush and a remineralizing toothpaste at least twice a day will drastically reduce your risk of cavities and gum disease.
It is also important to floss at least once a day. You can use traditional string floss, floss picks, or a water flosser. The most important thing is to use proper technique. Try to get the floss to scrub as much of the tooth surface as possible.
One commonly overlooked piece of an oral hygiene routine is tongue scraping. Your tongue acts as a sponge and collects bacteria that can cause bad breath. Removing this bacteria buildup from your tongue once a day will help prevent bad breath.
When was your last teeth cleaning?
If you’re like a lot of people, you may not have had your teeth cleaned since the Coronavirus pandemic began. Now is a great time to contact your dentist’s office to schedule an exam and cleaning. If you are looking for a dentist in Tigard or the Portland area, we are always accepting new patients. You can schedule an appointment by clicking the “Book Your Appointment” button in the upper right, or by calling our office at (503) 862-9086.