If you’ve wondered whether dental cleanings are really necessary, you’re not alone.
Many people question the importance of routine dental visits, especially when everything seems just fine. But they’re more than a quick polish. Dental cleanings are an essential part of preventive healthcare and help protect your teeth, gums, and mouth from serious issues down the road.
Why Are Dental Cleanings Necessary?
Regular dental care is an investment in your overall health and well-being. It helps keep your smile feeling fresh, but it also helps prevent discomfort and other health issues.
Cleanings also help remove plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to tooth decay (cavities) and gum disease. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth and can harden into tartar. Tartar buildup can only be removed by a dental professional using specialized tools. If left untreated, it can lead to gum inflammation (gingivitis) and periodontal disease.
Professional cleanings can be crucial for catching plaque and tartar buildup before they cause those issues. While maintaining good dental hygiene at home is essential, a dental professional can reach areas you often can’t with just your normal brushing and flossing routine.
How Is a Professional Cleaning Different from Home Care?
Dental professionals use specialized tools and equipment to clean your teeth. You can find high-quality toothbrushes, floss, and toothpaste for home use, but they can’t match up to professional products.
Dental exams and cleanings also have a strong focus on preventive care. When you visit us for a dental cleaning, we can detect dental issues during their early, minor stages and help address them before they become bigger problems.
How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?
The frequency of dental cleanings varies based on individual needs.
It’s generally recommended to get a cleaning every 6 months, but some people may need more frequent cleanings depending on their oral health and risks. We can help you determine the right schedule for you based on your specific needs and oral health.
Who Needs More Frequent Cleanings?
Here are a few reasons why we might recommend that you get more frequent cleanings:
- You’re prone to gum issues: If you have a history of gingivitis or are at higher risk for gum disease, more frequent cleanings might be helpful for preventing buildup and maintaining your gum health.
- You indulge your sweet tooth: We all love a treat sometimes! However, a diet high in sugary foods can accelerate plaque buildup, which might mean you need more frequent cleanings.
- You have dry mouth concerns: Certain medications or medical conditions can cause dry mouth, which can affect the health of your teeth and gums.
- You’re pregnant: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can increase susceptibility to gum disease and could be a reason for getting more frequent checkups.
Is a Cleaning Different from an Exam?
A dental exam and a cleaning are 2 different procedures, but they are often provided during 1 visit.
A dental exam is typically performed by your dentist and may involve:
- X-rays to detect cysts, bone loss, decay, tumours, and monitor the position of your teeth and roots.
- An oral cancer screening of the mouth, gums, face, tongue, neck, lips, and tissues.
- Screening for gum disease.
- An assessment for tooth decay.
- Monitoring of any prior restorations (such as fillings, crowns, and bridges) to detect whether repairs or replacements are necessary.
Cleanings are generally performed by a dental hygienist and include:
- Removing tartar from around the gum line.
- Polishing the tooth surface and flossing to make it more difficult for plaque to accumulate.
- A fluoride treatment to help make your teeth more resistant to acidic foods and drinks.
How to Maintain Oral Health Between Cleanings
Here are some tips to keep your smile sparkling at home:
- Brush at least twice a day for 2 minutes each time.
- Use a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to brush all the sides of your teeth.
- Remember to brush your tongue to remove bacteria that can cause bad breath.
- Floss once a day to remove plaque and food from between your teeth where your toothbrush can’t reach. Make sure to get between every tooth and behind the last molars.
- Limit how often you consume sugary snacks and drinks, as they can contribute to plaque buildup and tooth decay.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to wash away food particles and help keep your mouth feeling fresh.
Dental Cleanings in Calgary
Regular dental checkups and a consistent at-home oral hygiene routine are the cornerstones of a healthy smile. Preventive care is powerful, and our friendly team is dedicated to working with you to create a personalized plan that can help keep your smile sparkling. We proudly serve families from Calgary and surrounding areas and are accepting new patients.
