How Often Do I Need a Dental Cleaning?

Getting your teeth cleaned by a dental professional can help prevent tooth decay. You probably know that professional dental cleaning can help reduce your risk of developing dental cavities and gum disease. It can also help detect various oral health issues before they worsen and become difficult to treat. Are you looking to keep your teeth white and healthy? If so, consider getting regular teeth cleanings.

What Happens During a Dental Cleaning?

Many people dread visiting a dentist for a dental cleaning. Owing to the occasional prodding, jaw discomfort, and strange sounds, it is easy to understand the nervousness. But for most patients, the procedure is painless and simple. It is important to know what to expect during a dental cleaning. This will help ease your anxiety, in addition to allowing you to enjoy the amazing results. 

A dental cleaning procedure may include the following:

• A physical dental exam

• Plaque and tartar removal

• Use of a powerful electric toothbrush to achieve a deep clean and to eliminate tartar that could have been left behind

• Expert flossing session to locate any trouble spots

• Rinsing the mouth to get rid of debris

• Fluoride treatment to help fight against cavities and protect your teeth for several months

Do You Need Regular Dental Cleanings?

Most dental professionals recommend teeth cleanings twice a year. Your dentist may perform a dental X-ray annually. But depending on what they see in the mouth, your dentist or dental hygienist may do other dental exams. For kids, pediatric dental professionals may recommend additional treatments or cleanings to help prevent cavities.

Whether you need additional dental treatments or not, you still need to get regular cleanings to prevent problems altogether. A teeth cleaning will help your dentist understand what is going on in your mouth in advance. This will give you peace of mind and help you look forward to your next appointment. 

Frequency

How often you need to get a dental cleaning will depend on your dental needs. Each patient is different. Perhaps you are more prone to having dental problems. If so, you should visit your dentist more often. On the other hand, some people hardly experience any dental issues. Such people need to have their teeth professionally cleaned less frequently. 

General Guidelines

According to general guidelines, you need to schedule a professional dental cleaning every six months. This schedule is ideal for most people. However, you may need to schedule a dental cleaning every three months or so. Those with excellent oral hygiene habits may only need an annual dental cleaning.

Things to Do Between Dental Cleanings

You need to do everything possible to maintain good oral health. So, between your dental cleanings, you should brush your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. You should also floss your teeth at least once a day. Furthermore, using mouthwash can help keep dental bacteria at bay, in addition to keeping your breath fresh.

For more on dental cleanings, visit Reaves Dental at our office in New Hartford, New York. Call 315-736-0139 today to schedule an appointment.