Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to keep your teeth and gums healthy. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once a day are essential steps to maintain oral hygiene.
However, even with daily brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can accumulate on your teeth over time. This is where dental cleaning comes in. In this article, we’ll discuss how often you should get dental cleaning and why it’s important.
What is Dental Cleaning?
Dental cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, is a professional cleaning procedure done by a dentist or dental hygienist. During the procedure, the dental professional will remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and gums.
They will also remove any surface stains by polishing your teeth and give you a clean and fresh feeling.
Why is Dental Cleaning Important?
Dental cleaning is important for several reasons. First, it helps prevent gum disease. Plaque and tartar buildup can cause inflammation of the gums, leading to gingivitis or periodontitis. These conditions can cause tooth loss if left untreated.
Dental cleaning can help detect oral health problems early. During the cleaning process, the dental professional will examine your mouth for any signs of oral health problems, such as cavities or gum disease. Early detection can prevent these problems from worsening and potentially leading to more serious health issues.
How Often Should You Get Dental Cleaning?
The frequency of dental cleaning depends on several factors, including your oral health status, age, and lifestyle habits. In general, most people should get dental cleaning every six months. However, some people may need more frequent cleaning, while others may need less frequent cleaning.
If you have good oral health and don’t have any underlying health conditions, you may only need dental cleaning once a year. On the other hand, if you have a history of oral health problems, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleaning.
People who smoke or use tobacco products, have diabetes, are pregnant, or have a weakened immune system may also need more frequent dental cleaning. These factors can increase the risk of oral health problems and require more frequent cleaning to maintain good oral health.
If you need to figure out how often you should get dental cleaning, talk to your dentist or dental hygienist. They can evaluate your oral health status and recommend a cleaning schedule that’s right for you.
What Happens During Dental Cleaning?
During dental cleaning, the dental professional will professional tools to clean your teeth and gums. These tools include a scaler to remove plaque and tartar buildup, a polisher to remove surface stains, and a dental mirror to examine your teeth and gums.
The procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes, depending on the amount of buildup on your teeth. You may feel some pressure during the cleaning, but it should not be painful. If you experience any discomfort, let the dental professional know so they can adjust the tools or technique.
After the cleaning, the dental professional may recommend fluoride treatment to strengthen your teeth and prevent cavities. They may also provide tips on how to maintain good oral hygiene at home, such as brushing and flossing techniques and diet recommendations.
Conclusion
Dental cleaning is an essential part of maintaining good oral health. It helps prevent gum disease, detect oral health problems early, and give you a clean and fresh feeling. The frequency of dental cleaning depends on several factors, including your oral health status, age, and lifestyle habits. In general, most people should get dental cleaning every six months.
Are you due for a dental cleaning or have a dental concern? Comfort Dental Of Framingham is a dental office in the area committed to providing personalized care and using the latest techniques to ensure optimal oral health for all of our patients. Schedule your appointment today and let us help you achieve the healthy smile you deserve
