Why Are Professional Teeth Cleanings Important?

If you're a responsible dental patient, you brush your teeth twice a day. Brushing your teeth twice a day, just before you start your day and right before you go to bed, may appear to be all the work you need to put in. 

Frequent professional cleanings are essential for your oral health and general well-being. During a professional cleaning, your hygienist and dentist will look for and address any issues that you may have missed during at-home cleanings, including hard-set plaque and tartar buildup. Your dentist will also perform an oral cancer screening and assess the quality of your teeth and any existing restorations.

Why Are Professional Cleanings Done Every Six Months?

"Is teeth cleaning necessary?" is a concern that may arise in your mind, especially if you have a strict at-home regimen. There are various reasons why you should have a dental cleaning every six months, which we will discuss below.

Regular dental cleanings can help prevent and delay the spread of gum disease before it becomes a serious issue. A hygienist can detect symptoms of this condition, such as red and swollen gums, during a dental cleaning. Identifying the problem early on simplifies the treatment. Even if you don't suspect you have this condition, we recommend arranging an appointment. You never know what possible issues are lying in the background.

Many systemic disorders, including diabetes, heart disease, and sleep apnea, exhibit oral symptoms. Your dental hygienist is trained to recognize and discuss these indications with you and your dentist.

Cleaning can also help reduce plaque buildup. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing at least once a day will help eliminate plaque, but it can be tough to remove after it has hardened. The hard-set plaque includes several bacteria that can create problems and discolor your teeth, but a dentist has the specialized instruments necessary to remove it. 

Caring for Your Teeth Between Cleanings

Taking care of your teeth between cleanings does not have to be complicated. There are a few things you can adjust or add to your everyday activities to help maintain your teeth's health.

The first step is as easy as changing your toothpaste. Toothpaste with fluoride can help prevent tooth decay by combating plaque, so consider replacing what you're presently using with something more effective.

Brushing your teeth does not always totally clean them. Therefore, flossing is another alternative for improving your dental health. Flossing between your teeth eliminates plaque and other material left in your mouth after brushing. If flossing irritates your gums, consider using a water flosser instead of dental floss. In addition, it is conceivable that you are not flossing properly.

You might want to consider switching to an electric toothbrush if you have a manual toothbrush. Most use oscillating-rotating technology that produces a steady, severe brushing stroke. The oscillation and rotation provide a thorough cleaning of your teeth. To clean effectively, simply guide the brush head around gently.

Whether you use a manual or electric toothbrush, you should avoid brushing too forcefully.

This can wear away your natural enamel and harm your gums.

What Should I Do If It Has Been Over 6 Months Since My Previous Cleaning?

If it's been over six months since your last tooth cleaning, you may believe it's too late to see your dentist. Book an appointment as soon as possible. Your dental hygiene may have worsened over the course of 6 months or more without your knowledge. Potential complications such as gum disease may have developed, and tartar and plaque may have taken refuge in your mouth. Many dental disorders cause little discomfort until they become serious. Every six months, you should get your teeth cleaned by a dental hygienist for optimal oral health.

While you wait for your appointment, consider strategies to enhance your dental health, such as flossing or buying fresh toothpaste. These guidelines might help you avoid complications while scheduling and attending your appointment.