Professional teeth cleaning is an ideal way to maintain good oral health and prevent the risk of oral health conditions like gum disease and tooth decay. When you regularly visit your dentist, they’ll be able to identify the earliest symptoms of tooth decay and provide the necessary treatments to keep your teeth and gums healthy.
But if you’re wondering how often you should get your teeth cleaned, this guide is for you.
Why is Professional Teeth Cleaning Important?
The Australian Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing your teeth twice daily and flossing at least once daily. But even if you practice good oral hygiene, you still need professional teeth cleaning.
Over time, plaque and tartar can accumulate on your teeth even with the healthiest diets. For a few hours, plaque remains soft, but as it starts to solidify into tartar, it becomes much more challenging to remove.
Most bacteria that live in our bodies and mouth are harmless. But when plaque and tartar build up over your teeth, harmful bacteria can reside in them and produce acids that damage your enamel.
No matter what you do, some of this plaque and tartar will continue accumulating; therefore, you need dental hygienists with advanced instruments and procedures. They will help you to remove the build-up before it leads to dental problems like periodontitis and gingivitis.
Professional Teeth Cleaning Procedure
Getting your teeth cleaned by your dentist may take up to an hour. But before starting, your dentist will lightly numb your teeth and gums if you have sensitive teeth.
Three steps are common in professional dental cleaning.
- Cleaning
In the first step, tartar and plaque are removed from your teeth. This process is commonly referred to as scaling. The dentist or dental hygienist will use specialised instruments to clean the hard-to-reach parts of your mouth. They will also use specialised tools and floss to clean the areas between your teeth.
The hygienist may also use a device known as a Prophy-Jet to remove plaque, soft debris, and stains using water, compressed air, and abrasive powders. At the end of the step, the hygienist will rinse out your mouth.
- Polishing
In the next step, your teeth are polished. Your dentist will use a spinning head and dental paste to get your teeth as spotless as possible.
- Fluoride Treatment
Finally, you’ll receive fluoride treatment from a dentist or dental hygienist to prevent cavities. The fluoride treatment might come from a paste, gel, or varnish. After the cleaning, your dentist may also discuss good dental hygiene and suggest home care items for your teeth.
So, How Often Should I Get Professional Teeth Cleaning?
Dentists recommend getting your teeth cleaned by a professional at least twice a year or every six months. But some patients may need to visit their dentist more frequently.
For example, if you have a high risk of developing periodontal disease, you’ll have to visit your dentist every 3 to 4 months for professional teeth cleanings to maintain better oral health.
However, taking care of your teeth and gums is essential in between regular dental checkups. Make sure you brush twice a day and floss regularly. Also, use an alcohol-free mouthwash to keep the harmful bacteria away.
Professional Teeth Cleaning in Pennant Hills, NSW, Australia
If you’re looking for a reliable and experienced dentists in Pennant Hills, NSW, Australia, then look no further because Hills Dental Design is a perfect choice. We have a team of highly experienced dentists who can help you maintain your oral health.
Call us today and schedule your next dental cleaning appointment.