A majority of people believe that they only need to see the dentist for professional cleaning once a year. However, the Australian Dental Association (ADA) recommends that most people should have their teeth cleaned every six months. While this may seem like overkill, there are actually many benefits to having your teeth cleaned more often than just once a year. In this post, we will discuss some of these benefits and explain why you should consider having your teeth cleaned more frequently.
What are teeth cleaning?
Most people should have their teeth cleaned professionally by a dentist or even a dental hygienist at least twice a year. The frequency of teeth cleanings may be increased if you have gum disease, cavities, or other problems.
Teeth cleaning is a preventative measure that helps remove plaque as well as tartar from your teeth, which can lead to conditions such as tooth decay and gum disease. Plaque is a sticky film of food particles, bacteria, and saliva. Tartar is plaque that has hardened your teeth.
During teeth cleaning appointments, the dentist will use special tools to scrape away the plaque and tartar from your teeth. They will also floss your teeth and may use an antibacterial mouthwash.
Why is it important to have my teeth cleaned?
It is important to have your teeth cleaned for a variety of reasons. Here are some of the benefits;
– It removes plaque and tartar from your teeth, which can cause tooth decay as well as gum disease.
– It helps to prevent bad breath by getting rid of bacteria from your mouth.
– It can help to remove stains from your teeth, making them look brighter and healthier.
How often should I have my teeth cleaned?
Most dental professionals recommend that you have your teeth cleaned at least twice a year or every six months. However, depending on your individual needs, you may need to have them cleaned more often. If you have gum disease, for example, you may need to have your teeth cleaned more frequently.
How can I prepare for my teeth cleaning appointment?
Most patients don’t give much thought to their teeth cleaning appointment until the day before it’s scheduled. But if you take a little time to prepare for your appointment, you can make the process go more smoothly and help your dentist do a better job.
Here are a few tips on how to prepare for your teeth cleaning appointment:
1. Schedule your appointment for a time when you can sit down and relax and not be rushed. This will help you feel more comfortable during the procedure.
2. Brush and floss your teeth thoroughly before your appointment. This will remove any plaque or tartar that could interfere with the cleaning process.
3. Make sure to tell your dentist about any medical conditions that may affect the cleaning, such as diabetes or pregnancy.
4. If you have any concerns or questions about the procedure, be sure to ask them ahead of time so that your dentist can address them during the appointment.
What are the risks of not having my teeth cleaned?
Most people brush their teeth every day, maybe floss once in a while, and hope for the best. But what they don’t realize is that their teeth are under constant attack from plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to a host of serious dental problems if not removed on a regular basis.
Here are some of the risks of not having your teeth cleaned;
Gum Disease
Gum disease is an infection that occurs on the gums and can lead to tooth loss, bone loss, and even heart disease. It’s caused by plaque and tartar buildup around the gum line, which irritates and inflames the gums. If left untreated, it can progress to a condition known as periodontitis, which is a severe form of the disease that can destroy the tissues and bone supporting your teeth.
Teeth Cavities
Cavities are holes in your teeth that are caused by tooth decay. They occur when plaque and tartar buildup allows bacteria to break down the enamel on your teeth, creating holes that can become infected. If left untreated, cavities can cause pain, tooth loss, and even infections in the jawbone.
Oral Cancer
Lastly, one of the most serious risks associated with not having your teeth cleaned is oral cancer. Oral cancer occurs when abnormal cells grow in the mouth or throat. These cells can spread to other parts of the body if left unchecked.
Bottom Line
It’s important to have your teeth cleaned regularly, both for the sake of your oral health and your overall health. How often you need to have the cleaning depends on a number of factors, but most experts recommend at least twice a year. If you have any concerns about how often you should have your teeth cleaned, be sure to contact or visit us at Bayswater Dentist so that we can give you personalized advice.