Sadly, most people only reach out to their dentist when issues arise. But, just like many other things you cherish, if you want to keep your smile healthy and shining bright, you have to care for it. And one of the simplest ways to do this is to maintain your oral health with routine dental cleanings.
How often should you get a dental cleaning? Here’s everything you need to know.
The Importance of a Dental Cleaning
Every time you eat, little particles from your food will mix with your saliva and form a sticky substance known as plaque. It forms a layer on your teeth, remaining there until you brush it away.
While most of it comes off, there are some areas where plaque can hide and continue to harden. As it does, it becomes known as tartar. Everyday brushing is not enough to remove tartar.
If left alone, you can face things like tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
Professional dental cleanings involve the use of special tools by skilled dental hygienists. They are able to remove the tartar at and below the gum line, polish teeth, give fluoride treatments, and more. An examination by the dentist will give you the opportunity to address any areas of concern before they progress.
How Often You Should Get a Dental Cleaning
The average patient should get a dental cleaning every 6 months. Keeping this appointment twice a year is often all it takes to keep plaque and tartar from building up and causing damage to your teeth and gums.
Depending on your current level of oral health, your dentist may recommend dental cleaning visits more frequently, such as every 3 months.
Benefits of Routine Dental Cleanings
It is pretty safe to say that one of the biggest benefits of routine dental cleanings is better oral health – and a happier mouth. But there are actually more benefits to be had, including:
- Prevent plaque and tartar buildup
- Reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease
- Reduce your risk of gum disease
- Uncover oral health issues before they get worse
- Save time and money – without having to address complex issues
- Get rid of bad breath
- Catch oral cancer early
Dental cleanings are one investment you simply must make twice a year.
Are At-Home Oral Hygiene Cleanings Just As Effective?
Your oral hygiene routine at home is vital to your oral health. You should be brushing at least twice per day and flossing daily. This will allow you to remove bacteria and food debris from your mouth so that you can keep a healthy, happy smile.
Unfortunately, it does not matter how well you brush and floss your teeth every day, plaque and tartar can begin forming in certain nooks and crannies you may miss. This can lead to real damage.
So, while at-home care is important for your oral health, it cannot replace what a professional cleaning can do.
Dental Cleanings at Maine Dentistry
At Maine Dentistry, we want you to have a healthy smile – and we know it starts with a dental cleaning and exam. We make it easy and convenient for patients to come in for a quick, thorough dental cleaning twice a year.
Schedule yours today at one of our 3 locations.
Auburn (207) 312-5422
Gray (207) 657-3553
Portland (207) 607-7221