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How Often Should You Get A Dental Cleaning?

05 December 2023

Maintaining clean teeth and gums is essential in preventing dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and bad breath. Regular dental cleanings not only keep your smile looking bright, but they also play a crucial role in preventing serious health issues, including heart disease and diabetes.

During a dental cleaning, a professional hygienist will remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth, which can be difficult to remove with regular brushing and flossing alone. Plaque and tartar not only cause unsightly stains on your teeth, but can also lead to cavities and gum disease if left untreated.

So how often should you get a dental cleaning, and what are the signs it’s time for one? Keep reading to learn more from Smile Venue Dental.

The Recommended Timeline For Dental Cleanings

The recommended timeline for dental cleanings typically falls around every six months. This interval allows your dentist to monitor your oral health and catch any potential issues early on. For some patients with specific oral health concerns, more frequent cleanings may be necessary. On the other hand, those with excellent oral health may be able to extend the time between cleanings.

Signs You Need A Dental Cleaning

How do you know when it’s time for a dental cleaning? Here are a few signs to look out for:

1. Bad breath: Persistent bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be a sign of bacteria buildup in the mouth. Regular dental cleanings can help remove this bacteria and freshen your breath.

2. Bleeding gums: If you notice your gums bleeding when you brush or floss, it could be a sign of gingivitis or gum disease. A dental cleaning can help remove the buildup of bacteria and plaque that is causing the bleeding.

3. Tooth sensitivity: If you experience pain or sensitivity when eating or drinking hot or cold foods, it could be a sign of tooth decay or enamel erosion. A dental cleaning can help remove plaque and tartar that may be contributing to these issues.

4. Discoloration: Stains or discoloration on your teeth can be a sign that it’s time for a cleaning. Professional dental cleanings can help remove these stains and give you a brighter, whiter smile.

5. It’s been over 6 months: Finally, if it’s been more than 6 months since your last dental cleaning, it’s time to schedule an appointment. Regular cleanings are crucial for maintaining good oral health and preventing future dental problems.

If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it’s important to schedule a dental cleaning as soon as possible. At Smile Venue Dental, our experienced team can provide thorough cleanings to keep your smile healthy and bright.

4 Reasons You May Need More Frequent Cleanings

Oftentimes, people should get a professional dental cleaning more often than once every six months. If you fall into any of the following categories, talk to your dentist about how often they recommend you come in for a cleaning.

Eating Foods Rich In Sugar

Consuming sugary foods and drinks can lead to an increase in plaque and tartar, which can contribute to tooth decay. Foods to avoid or limit include sugary sodas, sour candies, bread, alcohol, citrus fruits, and crackers. Dental cleanings can remove plaque and tartar caused from sugar and prevent potential cavities.

Smoking

If you smoke, you may want to consider getting your teeth cleaned more often than every six months. Smoking can cause staining, bad breath, and gum disease. Regular dental cleanings help remove the tar and nicotine deposits that build up on your teeth and can lead to serious oral health issues.

History Of Gum Disease

Poor dental hygiene can lead to gum disease, which can result in swollen, bleeding gums and even tooth loss. Regular cleanings can help prevent and treat gum disease, keeping your gums healthy and strong.

Poor Dental Hygiene

Even if you brush and floss regularly, there are still areas in your mouth that can be hard to reach and clean properly. Professional dental cleanings can remove plaque and tartar buildup in these hard-to-reach areas, ensuring a thorough and comprehensive clean for your teeth and gums.

How Smile Venue Dental Can Help

At Smile Venue Dental, we’re committed to helping you achieve and maintain a healthy, beautiful smile. From routine cleanings and check-ups to more complex procedures, we offer a wide range of services to meet your dental needs.

We are dedicated to providing high-quality dental care in a compassionate and supportive environment, and we look forward to helping you achieve the smile of your dreams. Schedule an appointment today and experience the difference at Smile Venue Dental.