Refresh, declutter, and breathe easy – spring cleaning starts now! However, we aren’t just talking about your typical closet-cleanout. Your teeth need a spring cleaning, too! Routine teeth cleanings are beneficial for many reasons, as we will discuss in this blog. We will cover how often you should get your teeth cleaned, how long a cleaning takes, teeth cleaning benefits, and more.

How Often Should You Get Your Teeth Cleaned?

Dentists recommend scheduling a teeth cleaning appointment about once every 6 months. If you have or discover that you have a special dental health problem, this number will vary. It is never too late to begin your teeth cleaning journey – there is no judgment in the Perimeter Dental Group’s office!

How Long Should a Teeth Cleaning Take?

Routine teeth cleanings include a few main tasks, with your initial checkup adding a digital X-ray exam to the list. These appointments typically take between 45 minutes and an hour. The largest portion of the appointment will consist of a simple cleaning and one-on-one conversation with the hygienist to ensure you are getting the most out of your time with us. Your dentist will then check your overall dental health and complete an oral cancer screening.

Teeth Cleaning Benefits

If we haven’t sold you yet, these teeth cleaning benefits will do the trick! Here are some of the key perks you will enjoy from your checkup:

Removing Plaque and Tartar

Plaque is a sticky, colorless film made up of bacteria, food particles, and saliva. Over time, it builds up on your teeth. Tatar is the solid byproduct of plaque, which collects above the gum line. No matter how often you clean your teeth, there will always be plaque and tartar buildup. Regular cleaning appointments will take care of these tooth troublemakers for you!

Preventing Gum Disease and Cavities

The accumulation of plaque and tartar on your teeth over time can cause gum disease and cavities. The early stage of gum disease is gingivitis. Signs of gingivitis are bleeding gums, swollen and tender gums, and bad breath. Gingivitis is reversible through routine teeth cleanings and regular at-home dental hygiene. Cavities form from plaque sticking to teeth and eroding enamel, which is preventable through the same measures.

Maintaining Fresh Breath

Bad breath, which is also referred to as halitosis, can occur for many reasons. These include bad-breath bacteria, dry mouth, gum disease, stinky foods, smoking and tobacco, and various medical conditions. If you combine regular visits to your dentist with brushing and flossing, you can tackle bad breath.

Financial Benefits

Yes, routine teeth cleanings will actually save you money! By attending regular dental checkups, you will prevent larger (and more expensive) dental issues like root canals and severe gum disease.

Tips for Healthy Gums

As mentioned, combining regular teeth cleanings with proper at-home dental hygiene will boost your healthy gum journey! Here are a few ways to pursue that goal:

• Utilizing proper brushing techniques: The ADA recommends brushing twice a day with a soft-bristled brush, replacing your toothbrush every 3-4 months, and brushing in a soft, back and forth motion starting with the outer surfaces, then inner surfaces, and finally the tips of the teeth.
• Use mouthwash: After brushing your teeth, use mouthwash to reach spots that your toothbrush can’t reach. Fresh breath for the win!
• Flossing: A great way to clean out bacteria between your appointments is by flossing at least once a day. Floss picks, traditional dental floss, and water flossers are popular products people use to floss.

Visit our blog that discusses dental habits for more details on at-home dental hygiene.

Now That You Have the Facts

It’s time to refresh your smile this spring! Schedule a routine teeth cleaning with a local dentist and enjoy the benefits of healthier gums and teeth. Call today to book your appointment – we look forward to seeing you!