How Often Should I Have My Teeth Professionally Cleaned?

People regularly ask how often they really need to have their teeth professionally cleaned, and it is a valid question. A dentist may recommend professional cleanings twice per year at six-month intervals, but that is a general guideline. Some patients require professional teeth cleaning and visits to the dental office more often due to various risk factors.

The Purpose of Professional Teeth Cleanings

Daily brushing and flossing removes plaque and improves oral health. Even the best oral hygiene routine doesn’t remove all plaque, however. It settles down into cracks and crevices where it builds up on teeth and gums. As the plaque sits, it begins to colonize and harden. Hardened plaque turns into tarter, which also damages teeth. Dentists and dental hygienists use special tools to remove tarter and plaque build-up.

Professional cleanings are necessary for a healthy smile, but they serve another purpose, too. They can prevent gum disease and even reveal signs of more serious problems. Regular dental cleanings are an opportunity for your dentist to spot new cavities, early signs or oral cancer and other serious medical problems, which may first manifest in oral symptoms.

The Dentist Knows Best

How often should you have your teeth professionally cleaned? The answer is as often as your dentist recommends. The number of recommended dental cleanings is determined by multiple factors. Smoking, risk for gum disease, medical history and age all dictate the necessity and frequency of dental cleanings. Personal oral hygiene habits can also play a big role in your dentist’s recommendations.

If it’s time for your dental cleaning and exam, call the office of Dr. Daggula today. Professional dental cleanings are more than just routine maintenance, they are necessary for keeping teeth healthy and strong.