How often do you get your teeth cleaned?

We all know that daily brushing and flossing are an important part of keeping our teeth happy and healthy, but there is only so much we can do on our own. That’s why it’s just as important to make time to see your dentist at least once a year for a professional cleaning and check up.  Your dentist uses professional tools to remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria build-up that we are generally unable to efficiently clean ourselves. Combining regular brushing and flossing with an annual dentist’s office visit will not only give you a more confident and healthy smile, but it will also help protect you from tooth decay, tooth loss, and periodontal or gum disease.

The American Dental Association recommends that you visit your dentist at least once a year to get a routine examination and cleaning. If you have a history of periodontal disease, you should get your teeth cleaned more often in order to prevent the recurrence of infections or disease. You should also have your teeth cleaned more often if you suffer from chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease due to their link to dental problems.

If you smoke, you should consider quitting. Smoking can permanently stain your teeth and create other tooth and gum problems. If you do not intend to quit smoking, you should get your teeth cleaned more frequently. Talk to your dentist to find out exactly how often they recommend you should get your teeth cleaned.

Sometime getting your teeth cleaned can cause your gums to bleed. If you have a lot of bacteria built up in your mouth, it can irritate your gums so that they become more sensitive and bleed more easily. This can happen after you visit your dentist for a teeth cleaning, because the dentist has to brush and touch instruments against your teeth and gums. This gum sensitivity may last for a day or two after a cleaning.

Don’t be scared away by the cost of going to the dentist. Getting your teeth cleaned is relatively painless and inexpensive, but the costs add up if you procrastinate and end up with cavities or gum disease. This combination of responsible dental care will give you clean teeth, a healthy mouth and a confident smile. So don’t wait, give us a call today and set up your next cleaning. (360) 734-6190