All dentists recommend brushing twice a day and flossing once a day. However, even if you follow a strict attitude to oral hygiene at home, it is still recommended to have your teeth professionally scaled by a dentist.
According to oral health professionals, the best way to clean your teeth is to visit the dentist at least every six months. However, this is not a strict rule and depends on your needs and the condition of your teeth. People with gum disease may visit the dentist every three months, while people with excellent oral health can delay their visit after six months. The six-month recommendation is only a guide and you should coordinate your schedule with your dentist.
Why do you need professional teeth cleaning?
Professional teeth cleaning is a method to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. During the meeting with the dentist, he will perform a comprehensive dental examination and also clean the plaque and tartar from your teeth. Plaque that cannot be removed with a toothbrush is usually behind the lower teeth and needs to be removed by your dentist.
With regular professional cleaning of the teeth, the possibility of decay is reduced. Research shows that there is a connection between gum disease and systemic diseases such as heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and many others, which means that maintaining oral and dental health is very important for maintaining overall health.
How often should you brush your teeth?
Patients commonly ask about the number of visits to the dentist, which can range from 3 to 6 months. As stated above, the six-month recommendation is only a guideline and your care plan should be adjusted according to the condition of your teeth and the opinion of your dentist.
With a 6-month visit, your dentist will have the opportunity to perform a thorough examination of your teeth and alert you to any serious issues that need attention, such as tooth decay, cavities, or gingivitis.
There is a school of thought that patients should have their teeth professionally cleaned every three months because plaque cycles and matures over time. The growth and maturation cycle of the plaque takes place from the initial stages of cell layer formation to the final dispersion stage. Professional cleaning every 3 months can disrupt the plaque maturation cycle and prevent bacteria from becoming periodontal pathogens.
If you are a smoker, have diabetes, or have a family history of gum disease, you should see your dentist every three months. This action will help maintain the health of your teeth and gums and prevent the occurrence of tooth and gum diseases.
What is involved in cleaning teeth?
Teeth cleaning can vary from dentist to dentist, but the initial steps including scaling, x-rays, and polishing are performed by all dentists. Most dental cleanings are a quick and painless procedure and usually take less than an hour.
Cleaning involves removing scale or plaque from the teeth. Dental hygienists or dentists use cleaning tools to reach hard-to-reach areas when brushing. They also use special dental floss to clean the spaces between the teeth that are often overlooked.
Most dentists and hygienists use a water jet to remove plaque, soft debris, and stains and rinse your mouth at the end.
polishing:
Polishing involves using a rotating head with toothpaste to polish the teeth and polish them as best as possible.
Fluoride therapy:
Sometimes, a dentist in Richmond Hill or a hygienist may apply fluoride therapy to your teeth to prevent decay and strengthen them. Fluoride treatment can include a paste, gel, or varnish.
After scaling, the dentist will make recommendations about proper dental hygiene at home and recommend a time frame for your next visit.