Patients should be getting such exams and cleanings at least twice a year. Some patients may benefit from more frequent cleanings by a dental hygienist if their mouths tend to accumulate plaque and tartar more quickly. Professional cleanings are essential for a healthy smile and gums, even if you are conscientious about brushing and flossing at home. Some surfaces of your teeth are very difficult for you to reach on your own with a toothbrush, and a hygienist will have better angles on those areas and be able to clear away any plaque and tartar that might have developed.
Additionally, when your dentist examines your teeth and gums every six months, it is much more likely that any oral diseases will be identified in their earliest stages when they can be treated most easily and conservatively. Some patients may delay routine care out of fear that the procedures will be painful, but when you avoid seeing the dentist for exams, it’s actually more likely that you’ll need an invasive treatment for a condition like advanced gum disease. Exams and cleanings will involve minimal, if any discomfort.
Regularly checking in with professionals for care will also give you a chance to touch base about your home oral hygiene regimen so that you can make sure you’re doing everything right on that end, too. It always helps to get a refresher on technique to know that you’re brushing and flossing properly, for example.
Have you been putting off having your teeth cleaned and getting an exam? Why not set a New Year’s resolution to make your oral health a priority? Call our office today to schedule an appointment.
