Maintaining good oral health is not merely about having a beautiful smile but also about being healthy. Perhaps one of the best tools to keep gums and teeth healthy is visiting the dentist for a cleaning on a regular basis. However, how regular are you in visiting the dentist for a cleaning? This all depends on several factors, such as your current oral status, lifestyle, and medical history.
In this last guide, we will be finding out the significance of regular dental cleanings, why frequency is determined, and why having a reliable dentist in Adelaide to ensure proper oral health is crucial.
The Importance of Routine Dental cleanings
Prophylaxis, or regular dental cleaning, is the elimination of tartar and plaque that build up on your teeth over time. Despite brushing and flossing daily, there are some areas in the mouth that are hard to clean properly, resulting in plaque buildup. Plaque, if not treated, hardens into tartar (calculus) that causes cavities, gum disease, and other oral diseases.
Some of the major advantages of professional dental cleaning are given below:
Cavity Prevention
Plaque is a thin biofilm on teeth that is coated with bacteria. Plaque is an adhesive and if left untouched, leads to acid production that damages tooth enamel and forms cavities. Frequent cleaning by the dentist eliminates plaque before it starts causing harm.
Prevention of Gum Disease
Periodontitis and periodontal disease, or gingivitis, is a common result of poor oral hygiene. Gum infection begins with it and develops to a full-blown infection with loss of teeth unless treated. Harmful bacteria are eliminated by professional cleaning and prevent gum disease development.
Early Detection of Dental Problems
Routine dental check-ups enable your dentist to detect such issues as cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and even bite misalignments before they become major issues. Early catches are more efficient and less uncomfortable.
Fresh Breath
Chronic bad breath (halitosis) is often caused by food particles and bacteria trapped between the teeth. Cleanings remove these villains, making your mouth fresh and clean-smelling.
General Health Benefits
Studies have found strong connections between general health, mouth health, and oral health. Studies have shown that dirty mouths and dental infection have been associated with heart disease, diabetes, and lung infection. Healthy gums and healthy teeth can offer better overall health.
How Often Should You Have a Dental Cleaning?
For years, the norm has been to get a cleaning done at the dentist every six months. However, this suggestion may not be ideal for all. The dental cleaning frequency needs to be modified based on oral health status, lifestyle, and risk factors.
Following are some general guidelines provided below according to various oral health statuses:
1. For People with Good Oral Health
If you have good gums and no more than what would build up an acceptable layer, cleaning at regular visits by your dentist every six months is sufficient. Keeping you healthy, twice-yearly visits with nothing extra in the interim will maintain good overall health without growing an unresolved matter.
2. For Persons Having Experienced Cavities
Some people are prone to cavities due to their genes, diet, or bad oral hygiene. If you’ve been getting regular cavities, your dentist may recommend professional cleanings every three or four months to prevent decay and save your teeth.
3. For People with Gum Disease
If you have gingivitis (early gum disease), your dentist can recommend more frequent cleanings in hopes of preventing the development of periodontitis.
For patients with periodontitis, deep cleaning (root planing and scaling) often will need to be repeated every three or four months to remain in charge of healthy gums and bacterial infection.
4. For People with Braces or Dental Appliances
Individuals who wear braces, retainers, or other dental appliances can find it difficult to keep their teeth clean. Food particles become lodged, causing plaque and cavities. A dental cleaning every three to four months is advisable here.
5. Smokers and Heavy Coffee/Tea Drinkers
Smoking and frequent consumption of staining foods like coffee, tea, and red wine can lead to tooth discoloration and plaque. If you smoke or consume these frequently, get your teeth cleaned every three to four months to maintain your pearly whites.
6. For Those with Specific Medical Conditions
Medical conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and compromised immune systems render patients susceptible to oral complications. These patients require a visit to the dentist for professional cleaning every three or four months to avert infection and complications.
What Happens During a Routine Dental Cleaning?
A routine dental cleaning by a professional usually includes the following:
1. Oral Examination
Following a preliminary survey of your mouth prior to cleansing, your dentist or dental hygienist will then search for indications of gum disease, cavities, or any other issues within your teeth.
2. Removal of Plaque and Tartar
Your hygienist will also use special dental tools to scrape plaque and tartar off the surface of your teeth and along your gum line. Tartar is hardened plaque that cannot be removed by brushing, so this is the most important part of good oral health.
3. Polishing and Deep Cleaning
Following tartar removal, the hygienist will buff your teeth using a high-speed electric brush and abrasive toothpaste. This smoothes out surface stains, and it becomes more difficult for plaque to stick.
4. Rinsing and Flossing
Flossing loosens any remaining plaque or food fragments between teeth. The hygienist will rinse your mouth to dislodge debris.
5. Fluoride Treatment (Optional)
Some dental offices offer fluoride treatments after cleanings. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent cavities.
Choosing the Right Dentist in Adelaide
If you’re looking for high-quality dental care in Adelaide, choosing the right dentist is essential. A good dentist will provide personalized care, use advanced dental technology, and create a comfortable environment for patients.
Why Choose Walsh Dental?
Walsh Dental is a reputable dental care in Adelaide that provides quality treatment to patients of all ages. Their skilled practitioners are experts in preventive care and patient education to ensure you receive the best oral health. If you require regular dental cleaning, fillings, or complex periodontal care, Walsh Dental aims to provide better treatment to suit your requirements.
How to Take Care of Oral Health Between Cleanings
Regular cleanings are necessary, but oral care at home is also necessary to maintain a healthy mouth. Some tips on how to maintain clean teeth between dental cleanings:
✔ Brush Twice a Day: Brush with toothpaste containing fluoride and brush for at least two minutes each time.
✔ Floss Daily: Flossing removes food particles and plaque from in-between teeth, which can lead to cavities and gum disease.
✔ Use Mouthwash: Swish an antibacterial mouthwash to kill germs and make your breath fresh.
✔ Eat a Healthy Diet: Stay away from sugary drinks and sweets, which cause cavities. Eat a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, and calcium.
✔ Avoid Smoking and Excessive Alcohol: These will discolor your teeth and increase the risk of gum disease and oral cancer.
✔ Stay Hydrated: Water intake serves to flush away food particles and bacteria from your mouth, keeping it clean.
✔ Replace Your Toothbrush: Get a new toothbrush every three or four months or earlier if the bristles become worn out.
Conclusion
Regular cleanings are frequently a part of regular oral care, but the interval needs to be changed depending on personal necessity. While six-month intervals are typical, some need to have teeth cleaned more often due to gum disease, medical conditions, or poor habits. Need a fine dentist in Adelaide? Walsh Dental provides quality care to suit your needs. Home oral care and regular cleans can keep you smiling for decades. Would you like to schedule your next clean? Walsh Dental invites you to call them today for quality dental care in Adelaide!