Daily tooth brushing and periodic dental cleanings are the foundation of good oral health. But if you know that you must brush your teeth two times a day and floss every night, how often should you schedule professional dental cleanings? And what happens if you skip them?
Keep reading to find out!
According to the American Dental Association, adults should schedule a dental cleaning and exam at least twice a year. Of course, the frequency might vary depending on your oral health needs. If you have gum disease, for example, you may need dental cleanings more often to help control the infection. Children and teenagers may also need frequent cleanings because they are more prone to tooth decay.
As we said, you should have a dental cleaning every six months. If that's not possible for you, you shouldn't wait for longer than a year between appointments. The longer you wait, the more plaque will accumulate on your teeth and lead to tooth decay and gum disease. And, as the plaque hardens and turns into tartar, it becomes more difficult to remove.
There are several risks associated with not having regular dental cleanings.
Although daily brushing can help control your oral health to some extent, your regular toothbrush cannot remove all food particles and bacteria on your teeth. Over time, this bacteria buildup can lead to cavities and even gum diseases. If left untreated for too long, gum diseases can lead to tooth loss.
But that's not all. Gum disease is also linked to other health problems, such as heart disease and stroke.
A dental cleaning begins with a thorough examination of your mouth, teeth, and gums. The dentist will check for any signs of decay, gum disease, or other problems.
Then, the dentist will remove plaque and tartar from your teeth using special instruments. They may also use a scaler to remove any hardened plaque or buildup from between your teeth and around the gumline.
Next, the dentist will polish your teeth to remove any remaining plaque and stains. They may also apply a fluoride treatment to help strengthen your teeth and protect them from decay. The final step is to floss your teeth to remove any remaining plaque and food particles.
Preventive dentistry is an essential part of good oral health. At Z Dentistry, we make sure to thoroughly clean your teeth and gums, remove minor stains, and give your smile a healthy and bright look.
If you want to schedule an appointment or get more information about our services, you can contact us online. You can also call us at (225) 570-4050 for a quick chat.
