Just keeping your teeth clean can be beneficial for helping them stay healthy and strong. Many wonder how often they should clean their teeth and if it is really that important. Your dentist will have some recommendations based on your specific situation and dental health status. There are also a few guidelines for regular teeth cleaning that should be followed.
Regular Teeth Cleaning at the Dentist
It is very important to have regular cleanings professionally done by a dental hygienist or dentist. These types of cleanings can help remove some of the hard deposits on the teeth that brushing daily is not able to remove. Removing this type of buildup can help prevent gum disease. It’s important to have your teeth cleaned at least twice a year so plaque does not have the opportunity to build up and cause gum disease. The dentist may recommend that you have your teeth cleaned more often if there are specific health concerns he has about your oral health.
Specific Benefits of Having Your Teeth Cleaned
Other than preventing gum disease, there are some other benefits to getting your teeth cleaned regularly. For example:
- Helps Prevent Cavities: The plaque that builds up on your teeth is the leading cause of decay. Plaque is removed through regular brushing, flossing and cleanings.
- Stops Tooth Loss: Gum disease is one result of not cleaning the teeth and this is a major cause of tooth loss for adults.
- Brightens Up Your Smile: Drinking dark liquids like coffee, tea or wine and using tobacco can cause the teeth to stain. Dental cleanings remove these built-up stains so you have a brighter smile.
- Saves you Money: Regular dental cleanings are a part of good oral hygiene and they can save you money in the long run. Cleanings are a type of preventive dentistry and by keeping your teeth and gums healthy you can potentially avoid extensive procedures later on.
The role of Regular Teeth Cleaning at Home
Don’t underestimate the role cleaning your teeth at home plays in maintaining your overall oral healthy. You should clean your teeth at least two or three times each day by brushing them using a soft bristled toothbrush. A good toothbrush should fit comfortably with the size and shape of the mouth and you should replace it every 3 or 4 months. Using short strokes, brush back and forth to clean all the surfaces of your teeth including the chewing surfaces, and both the inner and outer surfaces. Use vertical strokes to clean between your teeth. You should also be flossing at least once per day. This helps remove plaque, food, debris and bacteria from the areas between your teeth.
Following these guidelines will help you maintain your oral health, have fresh breath and keep a beautiful smile you are proud of. Regular teeth cleaning, both professionally and as part of good daily oral hygiene are essential for keeping your teeth, mouth and gums healthy for a long time to come.