Oral health is important because it impacts our overall health in many ways. This is why it is important to stay on top of routine dental cleanings in order to promote positive oral health. While staying on top of your at-home dental hygiene is critical, brushing and flossing at home can only do so much by themselves. Scheduling deep dental cleanings with a professional helps to ensure that you are getting rid of any stronger plaque and tartar build up.

Here are some of the top reasons you should keep up with routine dental cleanings:

Avoid cavities: Plaque buildup on the teeth can lead to tooth decay and cavities. Regular dental cleanings can help remove this buildup before it causes permanent damage.
Preventing gum disease: Plaque and tartar buildup can also cause inflammation and infection of the gums, known as gum disease. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other health problems.
Fresher breath: Dental cleanings can help remove bacteria that can cause bad breath, leaving your mouth feeling fresh and clean. If you want fresher breath and to improve your overall dental health, schedule a dental cleaning appointment with our team today.
Early detection of dental issues: Routine dental checkups and cleanings allow your dentist to detect early signs of dental problems such as cavities, gum disease, and oral cancer. Early detection can help prevent more serious problems from developing.
Maintaining overall health: Strong oral health is vital for maintaining overall health. Poor oral health has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other health problems.

Overall, regular dental cleanings play a necessary role in maintaining strong oral health and preventing dental problems. It is recommended to have a dental cleaning every six months, or more frequently if recommended by your dentist.

What Happens During a Teeth Cleaning?

The teeth cleaning procedure may vary between practitioners, but these are the basic steps of a teeth cleaning visit. The whole process usually takes less than an hour. If you have sensitive teeth, a light numbing agent can be applied to your teeth and gums before you begin.

Cleaning

During this step, also called scaling, tartar and plaque are removed from your teeth. Your dentist or dental hygienist will clean the most difficult to reach areas of your mouth using special tools to scrape off stubborn plaque. They will also clean the spaces between your teeth with a special flossing technique and tools.

The hygienist may use a tool called a Prophy-Jet, which uses water, abrasive powders, and pressurized air to remove plaque, soft debris, and stains. They’ll rinse out your mouth at the end.

Polishing

Next, your teeth are polished. Your dental professional uses a rotating head with a dental paste to shine your teeth up to their squeaky clean best.

Fluoride treatment

To prevent cavities, a dentist or dental hygienist may apply a fluoride treatment to your teeth. This fluoride treatment may be a paste, a gel, or a varnish.

At the end of the cleaning, they may speak with you about proper dental hygiene and recommend products for keeping your teeth healthy at home.

How Often Do My Teeth Need To Be Cleaned?

It is generally recommended to have your teeth cleaned by a dental professional every six to twelve months. This is because regular dental cleanings can help remove plaque and tartar buildup, which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease if left untreated.

However, the frequency of dental cleanings may vary based on your individual needs. If you have a history of gum disease, are prone to developing cavities, or have other dental health issues, your dentist may recommend more frequent cleanings. On the other hand, if you have excellent dental health and a low risk of dental problems, your dentist may recommend less frequent cleanings, such as once a year.

Ultimately, it is best to consult with your dentist to determine the recommended frequency of dental cleanings based on your individual needs and dental health. Your dentist can also recommend proper oral hygiene practices, such as brushing and flossing, to help maintain good oral health between cleanings.

Prioritize Your Dental Health

A healthy life starts with a healthy smile. Neglecting to take care of your dental health can lead to painful, expensive, and irreversible damage to your smile. Our dentists Dr. Brian L. Porter or Dr. Kelley Joo, work with patients to help them take charge of their dental health. Schedule your dental check-up by reaching out to Brian L. Porter, DDS at 281-422-3415 today.

Brian L. Porter, DDS
1109 E. James Ave.
Baytown, TX 77520
281-422-3415
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