Taking regular care of our teeth is essential for good oral health. Not only must we brush our teeth twice daily, but professional dental cleaning is also important when it comes to the health of our teeth and gums. But how often do you really need dental cleaning? Are you receiving enough?
It Depends on the Patient
Unfortunately, there is no exact number when it comes to the recommended frequency of dental cleanings. It all comes down to the specific patient and their needs.
Some factors that can affect how often an individual should receive dental cleaning include the current state of their teeth, genetics, and any oral health diseases or appliances they may have. The worse one’s oral health may be, the more frequent dental cleanings they may need to keep their pearly whites in the best condition possible.
But how do you know how many cleanings you, in specific, need? A fantastic dentist Sandy Utah will be able to determine that for you.
How Often is Dental Cleaning Typically Recommended?
For the average person with average to excellent oral health, dental cleanings are recommended once every six months. That’s only two visits a year, folks!
The American Dental Association recommends biannual dental visits begin within six months of a child receiving their first tooth or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. These regular, twice-a-year dental cleanings will be critical throughout adolescence, adulthood, and even late adulthood.
Why Dental Cleanings are Important
So now you know how frequently you should be receiving dental cleanings, but why are they so important, you might ask? Isn’t brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day good enough?
Unlike our regular, at-home dental routine, getting a professional dental cleaning gives our teeth and gums the opportunity to get a deep, thorough cleaning. With their special tools, dentists will be able to remove tartar, which is stuck-on plaque. Tartar is not only unattractive, but it can also eat at the tooth enamel and increase our chances of gum disease and cavities.
While we’re at our appointment, dental professionals will also be able to look for signs of gum recession, cavities, and other oral health-related concerns. In response, they can provide us with professional advice and/or offer help in the form of dental treatment. Many times, we’d overlook the signs of oral health conditions, that is, until a dental expert points it out.
All in all, while dental cleanings might seem unnecessary, these deep cleanings are what give our teeth the regular maintenance they need and deserve. There are just some things your average toothbrush and toothpaste can’t do that a dentists’ tools can. Never underestimate the power of a good dental cleaning!
Conclusion
Dentists know what they’re talking about when they tell us that professional dental cleaning sessions are vital for the health of our teeth. Generally, we need professional cleaning every six months. However, that number can vary depending on multiple factors, including the current health of a person’s teeth.
