Keep your pearly whites up to snuff. Dental health is a critical part of your total well-being.

Routine cleaning can improve your health. It’s a simple visit that can fix oral health issues you might not even know about. Cleaning your teeth is essential for overall health.

However, dentists often get asked, “How often should I get a dental cleaning?” Let’s get this question answered below, as the frequency would have to be affected by some factors.

Read on!

On Normal Dental Hygiene Routine

You should get a dental cleaning at least twice a year for optimal dental health. Good oral health is essential, and it’s important to maintain regular visits with your dentist for preventive care. Professional cleanings remove plaque and tartar buildup to help:

  • prevent cavities
  • strengthen tooth enamel
  • prevent gum disease

In addition to regular cleanings, your normal dental hygiene routine should include flossing at least once per day and brushing after every meal. It is recommended to use a toothbrush with soft bristles and fluoride toothpaste, as well as a quality tongue scraper.

Oral Health Conditions

For healthy individuals, getting a cleaning every 6 months is recommended. However, if you have existing oral health issues such as gum disease, tooth decay, or dental concerns, more frequent visits should be considered.

You may need cleanings every 3 to 4 months to keep your teeth clean and prevent oral health issues from getting worse.

Your Hygiene Habits

Your hygiene habits can be a factor in how often you should get a dental cleaning, as those with poor oral hygiene may need additional visits. It is important to brush and floss daily to remove plaque and food debris and prevent the formation of cavities and decay.

If you don’t have the usual routine of dental cleanings, then it means you need to be more conscious of your oral health and visit for dental cleaning a lot more.

Gum Health

It is suggested that those who suffer from gum disease visit their dentist every 3 to 4 months as inflamed and bleeding gums can need more frequent attention. Additionally, people who don’t suffer from gum disease but who have very deep pockets between their teeth may need additional cleaning.

During a dental cleaning, the hygienist will inspect your gums, measuring the pockets and removing any plaque or tartar buildup. Regular cleanings help maintain good gum health and can help prevent serious complications from gum disease.

Your Dentist’s Recommendations

Your dentist is the best source of information regarding your dental care and will provide the most reliable advice on how often you should get a dental cleaning. Your dentist may also provide advice regarding additional treatments, such as sealants or fluoride. These of which are designed to help ensure your teeth are healthy.

If you have specific needs, your dentist may advise more frequent cleanings. Ask your dentist if they recommend more or fewer cleanings based on your dental history, and follow their recommendations for optimal oral health.

Smoking or Tobacco Use

As far as the frequency of dental cleanings, it depends on how much you smoke or use tobacco. Smokers and tobacco users are more prone to developing periodontal disease due to the bacteria in the smoke, which coats the teeth and gums.

Smokers and tobacco users should get their teeth professionally cleaned by a dentist or hygienist at least every three to four months to prevent periodontal disease. This is important to catch any problems early on and to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Medical Conditions

If you have any medical conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or respiratory issues, then your dentist may suggest more frequent cleanings. This is to help prevent the buildup of bacteria, which can aggravate existing medical conditions.

Additionally, certain medications can cause dry mouth, which can lead to increased bacteria production and an increased need for dental cleanings. It’s always best to check with your dentist to determine what the best option is for your individual needs.

Age

Age can play a role in determining the appropriate teeth cleaning schedule. For young children, starting from 6 months old, cleanings should be done every 6 months or so, while teenagers and young adults should still be getting those biannual appointments.

As adults age, starting at age 65, the recommendation shifts to a cleaning every 4 months since the risk of having dental decay or gum disease increases with age. It is wise to speak to a dentist about any extra dental cleanings or specific dental treatments that can help preserve the health of the teeth and gums based on age and lifestyle.

Dental Restoration

For those that have had restorations, such as fillings, crowns, etc, more frequent check-ups may be necessary to ensure the overall health of your mouth. After any dental restoration, your dentist may suggest additional cleanings to keep an eye on the area and to spot any problems early on.

Regularly scheduled deep teeth cleaning appointments with your dentist can help you save time and money in the future from costly dental procedures. So, make sure that you schedule regular dental cleanings and listen to your dentist’s advice when it comes to your oral health.

If you are concerned about the frequency of your dental cleaning, check these general dentistry services and get some helpful advice now!

Know When to Go for Dental Cleaning

Regular dental cleanings are essential to maintain proper oral hygiene and overall health. If left untreated, dental issues can lead to infections and other serious health problems.

It is recommended to get a dental cleaning every six months to ensure clean and healthy teeth and gums. Schedule an appointment today and ensure the best dental care possible!

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