“How long can you go without a teeth cleaning?”
I am a 22 year old male. I wonder how long can you go without a teeth cleaning?
6 Answers
DentistDentist
Forever
I would say no more than 6 months. Keeping a scheduled cleaning every 6mo, 4mo, 3mo will aid in keeping your teeth and gums in good health.
How long CAN you and how long SHOULD you could be very different. When your teeth are freshly cleaned is the best time to start a meticulous tooth cleaning regimen to be able to go somewhat longer between professional cleanings. Careful brushing for 2 minutes twice daily and *flossing* daily can help you keep your teeth clean much longer. Once plaque calcifies onto your teeth and turns to tartar or calculus, you need a professional cleaning.
The ADA (American Dental Association) recommends a teeth cleaning every 6 months. That is the reason the dental insurances allow dental cleanings every 6 months.
Like many of the questions posted on this site, the answer is "It all depends." So many factors are involved. Do you have many dental restorations - fillings, crowns, root canals, implants? Do you tend to build up plaque and tartar? Do you smoke? Do you regularly drink soda or alcohol? What type of diet do you have? How is your overall health? Are you diabetic? Heart problems? Any other serious health issues? If the answers to all of these questions are "no," then you may safely extend the time between cleanings. In fact, I have many patients who can go longer than 6 months between cleanings because their mouths are healthy and immaculate.
If the answer to any of those questions is "yes," then your cleanings should be on a regular schedule. But remember, while the cleaning is a major part of the recall appointment, it is not the most important. What is most important is the examination, which may include X-rays. Without a professional examination, a longer time between recall visits may result in undiagnosed developing problems like caries (cavities), fractures, loose restorations, periodontal (gum) disease, and even oral cancer. Even if a full cleaning is not affordable, the examination is vital.
Some patients postpone recall visits because of finances, schedules, and other reasons. Often, they are surprised that there is more intense and expensive work needed when they finally return.Many patients say they will wait until something bothers them, until it hurts That is often too late. Remember, just because there is no pain, it doesn't mean that there is nothing wrong. It all depends!
If the answer to any of those questions is "yes," then your cleanings should be on a regular schedule. But remember, while the cleaning is a major part of the recall appointment, it is not the most important. What is most important is the examination, which may include X-rays. Without a professional examination, a longer time between recall visits may result in undiagnosed developing problems like caries (cavities), fractures, loose restorations, periodontal (gum) disease, and even oral cancer. Even if a full cleaning is not affordable, the examination is vital.
Some patients postpone recall visits because of finances, schedules, and other reasons. Often, they are surprised that there is more intense and expensive work needed when they finally return.Many patients say they will wait until something bothers them, until it hurts That is often too late. Remember, just because there is no pain, it doesn't mean that there is nothing wrong. It all depends!
The average person should have one every 6 months to maintain good dental health.
