Tooth decay and gum disease can be avoided with regular professional teeth cleanings. Professional teeth cleaning is done by dentists and dental hygienists at the dentist’s office, and it’s frequently done in conjunction with a full dental exam.
The American Dental Association suggests having dental checkups and cleanings “frequently.” If you’re one of those people, maybe once every six months is the sweet spot. Visits to the dentist may need to be increased if you have a history of gum disease or are at risk for developing it.
The frequency of dental cleanings is an important topic, so let’s examine that.
Exactly How Often Should You Visit the Dentist?
There are dentists that advise having cleanings done every six months. Your dentist will be able to examine your teeth and let you know if they see any problems, such as cavities or gum disease.
There doesn’t seem to be much of a body of work contrasting the oral health of those who get their teeth cleaned more regularly than twice a year with those who don’t.
Some professionals have recently argued that the 6-month benchmark is arbitrary. A study from 2013 found that patients who see their dentist twice a year may not see statistically significant improvements in their oral health.
According to the same research, the number of times you should see your dentist depends on your own risk factors for gum disease (periodontitis) and tooth loss, which you should discuss with your dentist.
The disease of the gums is more likely if you have diabetes, use tobacco products, or come from a family with a history of gum disease.
It has been shown that there is a correlation between poverty and poor dental health. More cavities, tooth traumas, and gum disease occur among people who lack dental insurance or the financial means to regularly visit the dentist.
While this may be related to healthcare disparities and hurdles, maintaining regular dental checkups is beneficial to your general health.
What Happens during a Typical Visit to the Dentist?
While every dentist is different, these are the following are the typical stages of dental cleaning. Within an hour, you should have everything you need to get started. Before starting, a mild numbing agent might be administered to the teeth and gums if they are particularly sensitive.
- Cleaning
In this procedure, also known as scaling, plaque and tartar are scraped from your teeth. In order to remove plaque from those hard-to-reach places in your mouth, your dentist or dental hygienist will use special instruments. They will also use specific flossing equipment and techniques to clean the areas in between your teeth.
The hygienist can remove plaque, soft debris, and stains with the help of a gadget called a Prophy-Jet, which utilizes water, abrasive powders, and pressurized air. At the conclusion, they will give you a mouthwash.
- Polishing
Finally, your teeth will be polished. To get your teeth sparkling clean, your dentist will use a spinning head and dental paste.
- Fluoride Treatment
An application of fluoride by a dentist or hygienist can help protect your teeth from decay. This fluoride treatment could take a few other forms, including a paste, gel, or varnish.
After the procedure is complete, your dentist may advise you on maintaining good oral hygiene at home and suggest specific items.
Conclusion
It is important to have your teeth cleaned by a dentist or dental hygienist regularly. The frequency of your cleanings will depend on your oral hygiene habits, your risk for cavities and gum disease, and other factors. A good rule of thumb is to have a cleaning at least twice a year.
Be sure to follow all our pointers above, and never forget to consult your dentist at the first sign of trouble.
If you’re looking for experienced dentists in Framingham, MA, look no further than our experts here at Comfort Dental Of Framingham. We offer a wide range of services that are sure to bring out the charm of your pearly whites. Call us today to book your first dental appointment with us.
