How Often Do I Really Need a Cleaning?

When Are Dental Cleanings Necessary?

When it comes to making health appointments, it can seem like a nuisance to remember how often you should be visiting your doctor. In addition to making sure you’re caring for your overall well-being, it’s important to remember your dental appointments as well.

Keep reading to learn when you should have your teeth cleaned, why it’s important, and what you can do in between appointments to keep your smile healthy.

Schedule a Cleaning Every Six Months

You should have your teeth cleaned at least twice per year. However, some patients that are more prone to dental issues like gingivitis and cavities may need to come to the dentist more than twice a year instead of getting a cleaning every three months.

Additionally, most insurance companies cover two dental cleanings per year, but if you have coverage for additional cleaning, you’re always free to utilize your benefits and come in more often.

Checking for Dental Conditions

A big part of your dental cleaning goes beyond actually cleaning your teeth — but also checking your teeth and gums for oral concerns. Without having a regular dental cleaning schedule, your dentist has no way of keeping an eye on your teeth to check for cavities, gum issues, and other common concerns.

Remember that if you have other dental concerns, such as the need for implants or dentures, you can make additional dental appointments to go over these treatments with your dentist.

Caring for Your Smile in Between Appointments

While going to the dentist twice a year is important — remember that there are things you should be doing at home daily in-between visits to ensure your smile is protected.

Try working the following tips into your at-home routine:

1. Brush Your Teeth

You should brush your teeth at least 2-3 times a day or after each meal. Additionally, be sure to brush each section of your teeth in small circular motions. This will help to remove the most plaque from your teeth and prevent gingivitis.

2. Remember to Floss

While flossing your teeth seems like such a small action, most patients do not regularly floss. Flossing at least once daily can help stimulate your gums, fight plaque, and reduce inflammation.

Though flossing may be difficult at first for a patient, it will get easier over time as your gums become less sensitive. If traditional floss isn’t getting the job done for you, consider investing in a WaterPik.

3. Use a Flouride Toothpaste

Be sure to choose a toothpaste and mouthwash that contains fluoride and has the ADA Seal of Approval. These products are proven to support good oral health, and fluoride has been proven to fight against tooth decay.

4. Drink Plenty of Water

Drinking enough water is not only good for your overall health but your oral health as well. Drinking water with every meal helps prevent sticky, starchy, and acidic foods from clinging to your mouth. As a rule of thumb, try committing to drinking at least eight 8oz glasses of water per day.

5. Eat a Nutrient-Rich Diet

Consuming plenty of vegetables and fruits is the best way to ensure that you’re taking in the necessary nutrients and vitamins you need.

Crunchy produce full of fiber and vitamins helps support a healthy smile and can even act as natural floss — so get to munching!

Book Your Next Cleaning With Sterling Dental Center Today