How often you should go to the dentist depends on your teeth, gums, and how well you maintain good oral hygiene on your own. As the American Dental Association points out, there is no one-size-fits-all regimen for anyone.

Why are brushing and flossing insufficient?

When we brush our teeth, we often find it easier to brush the front teeth while the back teeth are usually more difficult to clean. Even if you are particularly careful with brushing each tooth, there is still a possibility that the bristles of the toothbrush are unable to properly clean the tight spaces between the teeth. When these spaces are left uncleaned, a layer of food and plaque forms overtime and the probability of you suffering from teeth cavities and gum problems increase.

Is flossing sufficient in removing plaque and tartar?

Flossing is an excellent method for removing plaque between teeth from the areas where a toothbrush cannot reach. Each tooth has five surfaces that must be cleaned. If you do not floss, you are leaving at least two of the surfaces unclean. In addition, knowing how to floss properly is vital in decreasing the probability of cavities and/or gum disease. Visiting a professional for a teeth cleaning will provide you with the proper flossing method as well as how to properly floss at home.

What is a teeth cleaning?

A professional teeth cleaning is performed by a certified dental hygienist or dentist. It is a procedure in which the professional removes plaque and tartar deposits that have accumulated on the surfaces of your teeth over time. These deposits are unable to be removed through regular brushing or flossing. It is a preventive treatment to minimize the chances of cavities, gum disease, and other potential dental problems.

Why are teeth cleanings necessary?

Alongside an assortment of benefits, teeth cleanings are necessary for a variety of reasons.

• Preventing Cavities– A cavity is a hole in your tooth that develops when a tooth decays or breaks down. It can grow bigger and bigger if it is not taken to the dentist. A cavity forms when plaque, a slimy substance made of mostly germs, builds up and clings to your teeth. The bacteria produce acids that can eat away at the outermost layer of the tooth and continue to make their way to the inside parts where the nerve endings are, causing teeth aches and pain. Teeth cleanings help prevent this build-up of plaque to ensure that your teeth are less vulnerable to cavities.
• Preventing Gum Disease – Gum disease, properly known as Gingivitis, occurs when the bacteria from plaque and tartar weaken your gums and make them prone to bleeding and swelling. It is a mild form of gum disease that can usually be reversed with daily brushing, flossing and regular cleaning by a professional. The American Dental Association recommends professional teeth cleanings are scheduled regularly to fight potential gum disease.
• Avoiding Bad Breath– Poor oral hygiene is one of the most common reasons for having bad breath. It can easily be prevented by following a strict oral hygiene routine, such as brushing and flossing twice a day and getting your teeth cleaned professionally, as recommended by your dentist.
• To Improve Overall Health– Did you know that gum disease not only affects your oral health, but it can also cause medical problems, sometimes even life-threatening, to your overall health? Gum diseases, also known as periodontal diseases, can link to several other health problems ranging from heart disease to diabetes. Oral bacteria released by plaque can escape through infections and open wounds in the mouth and into the bloodstream. The bacteria can injure major organs by increasing inflammation throughout the body, leading to heart disease and heart attacks.

How many times a year should I get my teeth professionally cleaned?

There is no fixed number of cleanings you need to get each year. Instead, your dentist decides how many times you need to visit for a checkup or teeth cleaning, based on your oral health and hygiene. For patients with proper oral health, two visits a year is enough. For patients who are more likely to develop teeth cavities or gum problems, they may need to visit their dentist more frequently for checkups and teeth cleanings, if required.

If you have question regarding dental cleanings or any other dental related questions call our dental office in Salem, MA at (978) 745-0055 or contact us online.