Monday, May 20, 2013

How Often Should I Get My Teeth Cleaned?

As a hygienist I'm frequently asked, "How often should I get my teeth cleaned?"  The answer depends on your genetics and how well you care for your teeth between cleanings.

Plaque is the soft film of bacteria that naturally grows on teeth.  The byproducts of plaque cause bleeding gums, bone loss and cavities.  Everyone also forms calcium deposits on their teeth at different rates.  Calcium deposits are sometimes referred to as calculus, tartar or hard deposits.  These deposits create a very rough surface on the tooth giving plaque many places to grow undisturbed and making it extremely difficult for you to remove.  Regular cleanings keep the tooth surfaces smooth making it so much easier for you to clean the plaque off your teeth.  When you do produce calcium deposits quickly on your teeth it is necessary to have your teeth cleaned more frequently so you can continue to remove the plaque and keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Your genetic make up contributes to how quickly you form calcium deposits and can play a major role if you have inherited certain diseases such as diabetes or a compromised immune system.  In such cases it is often recommended that you have your teeth cleaned every 3-4 months.  Under normal conditions every 6 months is a good rule of thumb.

So, to answer the question "how often," there are many factors to consider.  Talk it over with your hygienist to determine the best schedule for you to keep your teeth and gums healthy.


Rosalie
Hygienist

10 comments:

  1. If the involves your oral health, the dental office may be the finest defense you've against ailments and problems. Whenever you have trouble with one's teeth or nicotine nicotine gums, you have to go and discover them. Don't try to self-identify your problems and purchase cheap over-the-counter remedies. You may only or even more hiding the twelve signs and signs and symptoms and making the specific problem worse. Don't ignore any discomfort or discomfort you may have. Call at your dental professional office and possess it treated immediately. The sooner you obtain seen and treated, the more unlikely you will need to concern yourself with any future lack of tooth.

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  2. Thanks for asking this question. I need to have some teeth cleaning in maplewood mn done soon, because I have noticed that I have some plaque buildup on my back teeth. Do you know if it will cost more to get a cleaning if it has been a few years since my last one?

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  3. Hi there! great post. Thanks for sharing your knowledge in this area. keep it up!
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  4. Cleaning your teeth is a good way of keeping your teeth healthy & cleaning your teeth twice a day good idea for maintaining your teeth healthy.
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  5. Many people avoid going to the dentist because they are anxious or afraid. This can create a vicious cycle, where problems worsen and patients become more and more afraid of going because of the amount of work needed. Have a frequent visit to your Family Dentist

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  6. If plaque is not treated on time it can cause cavity, tooth loss or gum disease. Its better to get your teeth cleaned if you have plaque.
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  8. Plaque can cause many dental problems, its better to get your teeth cleaned on regular time intervals but before that consult a dentist.
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  9. I was always taught that you should get your teeth cleaned twice a year. I have been doing that ever since I was a kid and have never had a cavity. When you get your teeth cleaned at the dentist they clean stuff that can't be cleaned at home and if its not cleaned every six months it can cause cavities. http://www.sarniadental.com/our-practice-promise.php

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