How Often Should You Get Your Teeth Cleaned?

how often should you get your teeth cleaned

Sometimes, when we think about our health, we forget that dental hygiene is included in that category. Of course, you always want a happy, healthy smile. But, what are you doing to maintain it?

A dentist cleaning tool is surely more efficient at removing dirt from your teeth than a regular toothbrush. But, even besides that, your dentist can help you be proactive with your oral health when it comes to other risks like cavities and gum disease when you visit them often.

So then, you may be wondering, how often should you get your teeth cleaned? If so, the answer isn’t as simple as you may think. Read on to learn more about how important it is to get your teeth cleaned often.

How Often Should You Get Your Teeth Cleaned?

Especially if you have dental implants, you should get more info about how often should you have your teeth cleaned. Or, if you have a tendency for cavities or other tooth sensitivities, it’s a good idea to talk to your dentist in order to determine what a good schedule for your oral health is.

An old rule of thumb is to see the dentist every six months to have your teeth cleaned and checked. This varies for many people and these days dentists recommend that you visit at least once per year.

How often you get your teeth cleaned should be based on a few different factors. And, of course, based on your oral health at home may also be a deciding factor on how often you visit the dentist.

Plaque

Plaque is a buildup of bacteria on your teeth that affects more than 3 million people in the United States per year. If not treated, it can lead to damaged teeth and tooth decay or even tooth loss. You will notice a sticky film that coats your teeth or symptoms of bad breath as symptoms of plaque.

But plaque is not just bad for your teeth. Plaque buildup can lead to inflammation in the body which causes premature aging and systemic disease. You want to be proactive with teeth cleanings in order to avoid this oral health concern.

Bacteria

The bacteria that leads to plaque can also lead to other more serious oral health conditions like gingivitis. This disease is caused by not cleaning your teeth within 48 hours of eating and getting regular teeth cleanings. It can be prevented but is difficult to maintain once present.

The best way to avoid bacteria having a hay day in your mouth is to brush your teeth at least twice per day. You should really try brushing after every meal for the best results. The sooner the better and the less plaque will build up.

Gum Disease

Without regular teeth cleanings, you could also end up with a serious gum infection called Periodontitis. Gum disease can destroy the jawbone and in serious cases, it’s a risk factor for lung and heart disease. There is no cure for Periodontal disease.

You will be instructed to maintain a home health care regimen. Other treatment includes professional cleaning of the pockets around your teeth. This will help to prevent damage to your jawbone.

Again, gum disease can be prevented with regular oral hygiene at home and regular visits to the dentist for teeth cleanings.

Cavities

The more plaque buildup you have, the more likely you are to end up with cavities as well. Your dentist will have an opportunity to see how your teeth are doing at every checkup so that you can do everything to prevent cavities.

Cavities can have serious implications including fillings. Severe cases call for a root canal or even removal.

You can get cavities from drinking sugary drinks, snacking often, and poor dental hygiene. Not to mention plaque buildup with all that bacteria. It’s best to have your teeth cleaned as often as possible to avoid this painful diagnosis.

How Much is a Dentist Cleaning?

Especially if you don’t have insurance, you may be wondering how much is dental cleaning? Afterall, if you’re going to make it a part of your regular health routine, then you’ll need to budget for it, too.

A regular teeth cleaning appointment should include dental x-rays and a regular exam. This will cost on average about $150. Some dentists charge less and there are reports of teeth cleaning services for as low as $80 and as high as $200.

It all depends on your dentist and the extent of your visit. A longer appointment for extra work may cost more.

How Long Does a Dentist Cleaning Take?

You can expect your appointment to last anywhere from 30 minutes to one hour. Times will vary depending on your dental hygienist and whether or not other issues arise with your teeth, like finding cavities. However long it takes, it will be worth it for your health.

Final Thoughts

If the question is not, how often should you get your teeth cleaned and instead, when was the last time I was at the dentist, then it’s probably time to see a dentist. You can get your teeth cleaned while you’re there and start a new routine of visiting once or twice per year.

Dental hygiene is an important aspect of your overall health so you shouldn’t neglect your visits to the dentist. Find a dentist that you like so that it’s more comfortable to see them often. And, feel free to ask them questions just as you would your regular doctor.

If you have any questions or comments about getting your teeth cleaned, we’d love to hear about it! Feel free to contact us.

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