How Often Are You Having Your Teeth Cleaned?

As someone conscientious about your oral health, you know the importance of brushing and flossing your teeth every day. But, did you know it’s just as important to regularly schedule professional teeth cleanings?

When your teeth appear healthy, it can be easy to slack off on visiting the dentist for teeth cleanings. However, teeth cleanings are a significant component of preventing tooth decay and gum disease.

In this blog, Ana Chester, DDS, and Amy Caicco, DDS, of Chester Family Dentistry in Warren, Ohio, explain why getting frequent cleanings is so important.

Why are regular cleanings so important?

Dental exams and cleanings are an important part of keeping your teeth clean and preventing dental issues, such as cavities and gum disease.

Even with good at-home care, it’s impossible to remove all of the debris that accumulates on teeth over time. Any bacteria you’re not able to remove with a toothbrush or floss can form into plaque, and, if left long enough, plaque can harden into a substance called tartar.

Tartar is not removable with at-home care and, if it’s not removed, it can eventually lead to cavities and gum disease. With their sophisticated instruments and extensive training, our dentists can remove this dangerous tartar during your professional teeth cleaning.

Cleanings also give our dentists a chance to assess your oral health. With X-ray technology and a detailed examination, our dentists can catch and treat tooth decay, gum disease, and other issues early.

How often should I get a cleaning?

The frequency of your teeth cleanings is based on your oral health needs. For most people, our dentists recommend a minimum of one cleaning every six months.

Depending on your situation, our dentists may recommend cleanings more often, especially if you have certain health issues, such as gum disease or diabetes.

What to expect at your cleaning

Our cleanings consist of an examination and a cleaning.

Dental examination

Before your cleaning, your provider performs a full review of your medical history and examines your teeth, bite, and gums. At some appointments, they may also take X-rays of your teeth in order to investigate potential dental issues.

Teeth cleaning

Next, our team cleans your teeth. The cleaning is done gently and should not hurt.

Your cleaning begins with your provider using a scaler tool to remove tartar and plaque from your teeth and gums. Once this is complete, they use a special toothbrush and toothpaste to clean and polish your teeth.

After that, your provider flosses your teeth and has you rinse your mouth. And finally, your provider applies fluoride to help protect your teeth.

If it’s been at least six months since your last professional teeth cleaning, it’s time to schedule your next one. To get the care you need, book an appointment online or over the phone with Chester Family Dentistry today.