FAQs About Dental Cleaning And In-Office Care
Posted on: 29 December 2022
What do you need to know before your next dental cleaning? Even though you clean your teeth at home, take a look at the differences between self-care and in-office maintenance, what your appointment may include, and more.
Why Do You Need An In-Office Dental Cleaning Treatment?
You brush your teeth, floss, and maybe even use a mouthwash product. If you take care of your teeth at home, do you really need to visit the dentist for an in-office cleaning? The answer to this question is yes.
Home care is a necessary part of your dental routine. Daily brushing and flossing can reduce plaque buildup and help to stop the spread of dental decay. But most people can't get a professional-level cleaning at home. The dental hygienist can find tartar (the hard buildup on your teeth) in places you can't easily see. This allows them to target specific areas of your mouth and remove tartar that you can't reach or scrape away with a brush and floss.
Will the Cleaning Keep Your Mouth Cavity-Free?
There is no way to completely eliminate the risk of cavity development. This means you need to do your best to prevent plaque buildup and decay. Along with regular at-home care and a healthy diet that doesn't include sticky or sweet foods, a professional cleaning can help you to stop some decay before it starts.
What Else Can Cleaning Do For Your Mouth's Health?
Even though cavity prevention is a major reason to visit the dentist for a professional-level cleaning, it isn't the only benefit of this type of office visit. A dental cleaning can also help to improve your periodontal (gum) health. When the hygienist cleans your teeth, they will also remove debris, plaque, or other types of buildup from the gum line. This can reduce the risks of gum disease.
How Often Should You Schedule A Cleaning?
The longer you go in between cleanings, the greater the risk of decay. More time in between office visits gives the plaque in your mouth time to build and harden. To prevent or stop the progression of cavities, make sure to schedule regular dental office checkups and cleanings.
According to the American Dental Association (ADA), different people need different cleaning schedules. The specific number of visits you need each year depends on your individual dental health. If your teeth and gums are in excellent condition and you stay on top of at-home care practices, you may only need one or two visits each year. But if you have a history of dental decay, infections, or periodontal disease or your home routine is less than ideal, the dentist may want you to schedule more than two appointments.
Contact a dental office like Midtown Family Dentistry for more information.
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