How Often Should I Get My Teeth Cleaned?

If you’ve visited your dentist for a check-up and teeth cleaning within the past year, give yourself a big pat on the back. While the dentist’s chair isn’t everyone’s favourite spot, studies suggest that those who visit the dentist at least once a year for preventive care have healthier teeth and are more confident with their smile. So, the question begs, how often should one schedule a dental clean at the dentist? In this blog, we explore the importance of professional dental cleans and how often you should schedule them.

While regular brushing and flossing are integral to oral hygiene, professional teeth cleaning removes hardened deposits (tartar) that your toothbrush can’t. A dentist or hygienist uses specialised tools to gently remove these deposits without harming the teeth. Regular professional cleanings are crucial in preventing gum disease, cavities, bad breath and other oral health issues.

Moreover, during a dental cleaning, your dentist can assess your oral health, checking for signs of oral cancer, vitamin deficiencies, diabetes or other potential problems. This preventive measure can save you from costly treatments down the line.

Neglecting regular dental cleaning can lead to several problems:

• Tooth decay and gum disease: These can be caused by a build-up of plaque, a sticky film of bacteria that forms on the teeth. Over time, plaque hardens to form tartar or calculus, which can lead to cavities and gum disease.
• Bad breath: This is often caused by the bacteria that build up on your teeth, tongue and gums due to poor oral hygiene.
• Stained teeth: Certain foods, drinks, medications and tobacco can stain your teeth. Regular professional cleanings can help remove these stains.
• Potential health complications: Poor oral hygiene has been linked to various health complications such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and even complications during pregnancy.

Dental professionals recommend a professional teeth cleaning twice a year. However, depending on your specific oral health needs, your dentist might recommend more frequent visits. For instance, those with a higher risk of gum disease might need to visit their dentist more often. Regular visits to the dentists will keep your teeth and gums healthy, whilst helping identify potential issues early on. Even those who can manage a visit once a year will reap the benefits of a healthier smile and greater peace of mind.

While sometimes oral health issues can be silent, there are certain indicators that might signal the need for a dental cleaning session. Here are some signs to look out for:

• Bad breath: Persistent bad breath, also known as halitosis, could be a sign of accumulating plaque and tartar, which a professional cleaning can help address.
• Bleeding or sore gums: If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, or feel tender or swollen, it could indicate the early stages of gum disease.
• Teeth sensitivity: If you experience a sharp pain when your teeth are exposed to hot, cold, sweet or acidic foods, it could be due to gum disease or tooth decay and a dental examination and cleaning can help identify the root cause.
• Stained teeth: Discoloured teeth from food, drink, smoking or medication is another indicator that a professional cleaning might be due.

Have you been postponing your dental cleaning due to uncertainty or fear? At Perfect Teeth, we offer a range of compassionate dental General Dentistry and Family Dentistry services to cater to the unique needs of every family member. Our staff are mindful of dental anxiety and committed to providing quality care that prioritises your comfort and well-being. So, if you need a dental clean and check-up, don’t put it off any longer. Give your smile the care it deserves by booking an appointment at Perfect Teeth today.