Regular dental cleanings minimize the risk of cavities and gum disease as well as improve oral health. Teeth whitening in North Vancouver is generally sought every six months. However, how often you see a dentist for teeth cleanings depends on a lot of factors such as your dental history and lifestyle.
Importance of Professional Teeth Cleaning
The combination of saliva and food particles leads to the formation of dental plaque. Everyday teeth brushing gets rid of most of the plaque; however, food particles that are stuck between the teeth can become plaque when not removed professionally. This leftover plaque can harden to become tartar that you cannot remove on your own. Tartar builds up underneath or at the gum line. It can cause gum bleeding and swelling, indicating the development of gingivitis, which may lead to gum disease when not addressed. Symptoms of gingivitis include bad breath, receding gums, and tender gums.
Professional dental cleaning eliminates tartar that may have formed below and above the gum line. Then, fluoride treatment is applied to strengthen the teeth. Also, it eliminates trapped food particles, preventing gum disease progression.
How Often Should You Visit a Dentist for Cleanings
There is no rule as to how often you must have dental cleanings. While most patients are encouraged to get their teeth thoroughly cleaned at a dentist’s office, some patients may need to under fewer or more cleanings.
Those who have good overall health and dental hygiene may just need to get their teeth cleaned once every year. Others must schedule appointments every three months. It is important to consult with a dentist to determine an appropriate teeth cleaning timetable.
Patients Who Required More Frequent Cleanings
Frequent in-office dental cleanings are necessary for high-risk patients such as the following:
- Those who smoke. Smoking makes it hard to get rid of plaque and tartar from teeth. Because of this, smokers have an increased risk of tooth loss and gum disease. Routine cleanings can help improve a smoker’s oral health.
- Those who eat a sugar-rich diet frequently. A diet full of sugar can damage your oral health as plaque-forming bacteria tend to feed on sugar. Consistent consumption of sugar will lead to the rapid growth of bacteria in the mouth. Regular dental cleanings are essential to keep your teeth protected.
- Those who have gum disease. Regular teeth cleanings can help manage gingivitis. Removing plaque and tartar can prevent gum disease from advancing and your gums from receding.
