When you want a healthy smile, it makes sense to focus extra attention on taking good care of those pearly whites. Many people don’t realize it, but the health of your gums is just as important as the health of your teeth. Here are 3 steps to improve gum health:
We know you want to take great care of your teeth. But if you brush and floss well at home, do you need a dental cleaning? Here’s what you should know about dental cleanings and when you need them so that you can ensure your teeth stay healthy, strong, and bright.
Why are Dental Cleanings Important?
Many people wonder why professional dental cleanings are needed if they practice a good home care regimen. While it is vitally important to brush your teeth 3 times a day or after each meal and floss daily, it’s also very important to get a professional cleaning done regularly, as well.
A dental hygienist has the special tools and training to clean hard-to-reach areas of your teeth and safely remove tartar and stains. Regular professional cleanings are important to ensure that tricky spots where plaque and tartar can accumulate don’t turn into cavities or gum disease.
How Often Do You Need a Dental Cleaning?
The answer to the question, “Do you need a dental cleaning?” is determined by several things. Dentists typically recommend that healthy patients get a cleaning every 6 months, but if you have any underlying health conditions that can affect your dental health then your dentist may recommend cleanings more often, such as every 3 or 4 months.
Other factors such as age, disabilities that affect dexterity, and a history of dental issues may also impact how often a cleaning would be beneficial to keeping your teeth in top shape.
How to Tell if You Need a Cleaning
The most accurate way to find out if you need a dental cleaning is to schedule an exam with a dentist. Your dentist can check your teeth for signs of plaque or tartar buildup, erosion, or softening of the enamel. They can also measure your gums to assess if there is any inflammation or other signs of gum disease that can happen when bacteria or plaque builds up.
It’s a good idea to visit your dentist right away if it’s been more than 6 months since your last cleaning or exam or if you experience any symptoms, such as increased sensitivity, gum inflammation, or discoloration of your teeth, that may indicate tooth decay or plaque build-up. Professional dental cleanings are an important step to keeping your teeth looking and feeling their best.
Call our Phoenix, AZ, dental office to make an appointment with a dentist who may be able to help you find out more about this topic, and improve your oral health.