Tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath are all problems that can be caused by poor oral hygiene. Regular brushing and flossing may help prevent these problems, but it is also important to visit your dentist regularly. Your dentist can help identify problems you may not be aware of and provide treatment for more serious problems.
No one likes getting their teeth cleaned, but it’s one of the more crucial aspects of dental health. Regular dental care can help prevent and resolve bad breath.
At-home teeth cleaning is important but doesn’t replace professional dental cleaning. Let’s learn the right frequency for that overdue teeth cleaning and exam.
Answering the Question
The long and short of it is important to visit your dentist regularly, at least once a year, for your dental exam and cleaning. Plaque and tartar can infest your teeth in the long run, resulting in tooth decay and gum disease. If you don’t visit your dentist regularly, you may develop serious dental problems that could be difficult to treat.
So many people associate going to the dentist with discomfort and strange noises, but it’s necessary to maintain a healthy mouth. Dental cleanings and exams are quick and easy, and there’s no need to worry.
Dental exams and cleanings prevent dental problems and keep your mouth healthy. How often you need them depends on your oral health needs. Some people need to have them more often than others, but it is recommended to have them twice a year, once every six months.
Their Importance
Now that we’ve answered how often a teeth cleaning and exam must be done, let’s drill deeper by understanding why these must be done twice a year.
- For plaque and tartar elimination: Plaque is a thin film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. It comprises food debris, saliva, and other mouth secretions. If not removed, plaque can harden and turn into tartar. A tartar is a yellow or brown deposit removable by a dental professional.When put together, plaque and tartar can lead to gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums. This can progress to periodontitis, a more serious infection of the gums and bone that can lead to tooth loss.
- Dental cleanings are also vital for general oral health because they remove tartar, a hard deposit that forms on your teeth. When not dealt with, it can cause gum disease and tooth decay.Regular teeth cleanings remove any build-up on the teeth, which could lead to problems such as cavities or gum disease. During cleanings, a fluoride treatment is usually given, which helps to strengthen the tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay.
- For prevention or elimination of major problems: The dental hygienist will look for any obvious problems with your teeth and gums, such as cavities or gum disease. They will also check for signs of oral cancer. Once the examination is complete, the hygienist will begin the teeth cleaning process.
In Closing
Prevention is always much better than cure. And that’s what twice-a-year teeth cleaning and examinations promote. Your dentist can determine small problems (if any) and eliminate them before they get worse, making your oral cavity much healthier and your wallet happier for not having to spend more on a major health expense.
Book Your Appointment at Galleria Dental of Alexandria Today
For regular teeth cleaning in Alexandria, VA set your next schedule with one of our highly-trained, family-friendly dentists. We provide check-ups, crowns, veneers, and emergency procedures. Check out our facilities online through our website!