Brushing and flossing twice a day can help keep your teeth and gums healthy. But without a dental cleaning in Owings Mills, MD, your oral health is still at risk. A professional cleaning from your dentist helps remove built-up plaque and tartar, so you have a lower chance of developing decay. And your accompanying exam can help catch any early signs of a problem. How often you need your teeth cleaned will depend on the health of your teeth and gums.
When to Get a Dental Cleaning in Owings Mills, MD
When you get your teeth cleaned, your dentist will remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth and along the gum line. For many patients, a cleaning twice a year is recommended to help maintain proper oral hygiene. This means that you should generally be getting your teeth cleaned professionally at least every six months. However, there are some cases where additional cleanings may be necessary.
Four Month Cleanings
Some patients tend to develop plaque and tartar buildup more quickly than others. This could be caused by a lack of proper at-home oral care or even a genetic predisposition. Patients who experience additional plaque buildup may need a third cleaning throughout the year to help prevent decay. By getting a cleaning every four months, patients can better protect and preserve their natural teeth.
Three-Month Periodontal Maintenance
Periodontal (gum) disease can drastically affect your oral health. Once diagnosed, patients typically need four cleanings a year to help prevent the return or spread of gum disease. Once you’ve had gum disease, your mouth is at a higher risk of developing additional concerns. Getting a periodontal maintenance cleaning every three months can help improve your odds of maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
Do You REALLY Need Dental Cleanings That Often?
Even if you brush and floss two or more times a day, you can’t possibly remove every food or drink particle from your mouth. While additional tools and cleaning aids, such as mouthwash, can help, you’re still bound to miss something. Over time, plaque left on your teeth can develop into tartar, which is much more difficult to clean. Getting your teeth cleaned every six months can help your dentist remove the remaining plaque on your teeth to help keep your mouth clean and healthy.
Regular cleanings can also help catch early signs of developing problems before they become larger concerns. For example, your dentist may spot decay on your tooth during a cleaning. If caught early on, you may be able to get it treated with a simple cavity cleaning. But if you don’t notice the decay until it has spread, you may need more advanced restoration treatment instead. Getting a cleaning every six months can help your dentist catch problems early on.
Schedule Your Next Cleaning Today
If you’re in need of a dental cleaning appointment, contact Owings Mills Dental Care today to get scheduled.