Frequency of Dental Cleanings: What Is Right for You?

Regular dental cleanings play a crucial role in keeping teeth and gums healthy. In addition to promoting good oral health, these treatments can benefit overall health as well. It is important to follow a dentist's recommendations to enjoy the full benefits of regular dental cleaning.

What happens during a regular dental cleaning?

A hygienist uses special tools and a dental mirror to remove plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and gum line. Some patients may require a deeper dental cleaning, known as scaling and root planing, which cleans plaque and tarter buildup from under the gum line as well. Tooth polishing with a high-powered electric toothbrush usually follows. Then, the hygienist will floss the patient's teeth. Some patients may also be given a flouride treatment.

Importance of regular dental cleanings

Regular dental cleanings can improve breath and the appearance of teeth and help prevent dental issues such as cavities and gum disease. Even with good adherence to regular brushing, flossing, and other home dental healthcare, plaque and tartar buildup can be missed. During these dental cleanings, this buildup is removed so it cannot lead to irritated gums or tooth decay.

Recommendations on the frequency of dental cleanings

A common recommendation is to have a dental cleaning once every six months. However, some patients may only need cleaning once a year. Still, other patients may need to see a dentist more frequently, like once every three months. Each patient should consult their dentist about the appropriate schedule for them.

Factors affecting the frequency of dental cleanings

Quality of home dental care, diet, lifestyle, health conditions, and dental history are all factors that can affect how often someone needs a dental cleaning. The following individuals may need to come in for a cleaning more often than once every six months.

Those with active gum disease

Gum disease is reversible in its early stage of gingivitis. However, once it progresses to periodontitis, it is no longer reversible and can only be managed. Patients with periodontitis may need more frequent cleanings to prevent the disease from progressing and causing further damage.

Those with certain medical conditions

Heart disease, diabetes, and immune system disorders can increase the risk of oral health issues. For example, diabetes can impact blood sugar levels, leading to a higher likelihood of periodontitis, while heart disease can aggravate gum inflammation. These individuals may be advised to have dental cleanings more often.

Those who smoke

Smoking can not only lead to negative health effects, but also it is problematic for oral health. Smoking exacerbates gum disease and slows healing, leading to a need for more frequent cleanings.

Those who are pregnant

Hormones during pregnancy can impact oral health. Rising progesterone and estrogen levels can increase blood flow to the gums, making them more susceptible to inflammation. There is a condition known as pregnancy gingivitis, which can progress to periodontitis if not treated. Poor oral health during pregnancy can also contribute to complications such as preterm birth and low birth weight.