How Often Should I Get a Routine Dental Cleaning?

Dental cleanings are a fundamental component of preventive dentistry, a field dedicated to preventing the onset and progression of dental disease. Here’s all you need to know about the importance of dental cleanings and how often you should visit Highlight Family Dentistry for your routine dental care. 

Why Are Dental Cleanings Necessary?

We cannot overemphasize the importance of your routine dental care. Professional cleanings are the simplest and most cost-effective way to prevent dental problems such as tooth decay, cavities, periodontal (gum) disease, and halitosis (bad breath). 

Routine dental cleanings help prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar. If not removed, the bacteria they house produce acids, which attack and destroy the tooth enamel, leading to tooth decay and cavities. Moreover, the body’s immune system reacts to plaque and tartar buildup leading to inflamed, swollen, and bleeding gums, indicating periodontal (gum) disease. 

Gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease, can be reversed with a professional dental cleaning and meticulous oral hygiene practices. Left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which may damage the bone and connective tissue holding the teeth in place, potentially leading to tooth loss. Furthermore, studies have established a link between gum disease and a host of medical conditions, including diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. 

How Often Should You Get a Routine Dental Cleaning?

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends scheduling periodic dental visits at intervals determined by your dentist to maintain optimal oral health. We, at Highlight Family Dentistry, see most of our patients for their preventive dental exams and cleanings every six months. However, some of our patients require more frequent care. We will evaluate your unique needs and recommend the frequency of dental cleanings that works best to maintain your healthy smile. 

What Happens During Your Dental Cleaning Appointment?

Our dental hygienist will start with gently removing any plaque or tartar buildup from around your gum line and between your teeth using an ultrasonic instrument and a handheld instrument called a “scaler.” Next is polishing your teeth with a high-powered electric toothbrush and a gritty toothpaste to remove any remaining plaque or tartar and lift surface stains, leaving your teeth looking cleaner, whiter, and brighter.

Our dental hygienist will floss in between your teeth to remove any plaque or tartar remaining and to locate any trouble areas where your gums may bleed. Depending on your unique needs, we may recommend a fluoride treatment to strengthen your tooth enamel and lower your risk of developing cavities. We may also suggest changes to your oral hygiene routine at home to ensure your smile stays healthy between dental visits. 

Your appointment will include a dental exam, during which we will evaluate every aspect of your oral health. If we detect any signs of cavities, gum disease, or other potential concerns, we will recommend the most conservative treatment protocol to restore your healthy smile. 

Maintaining a Healthy Smile

While routine dental cleanings are crucial for maintaining healthy smiles, so is taking care of your oral health at home. Make sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day with a soft-bristled brush and fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. Meticulous oral hygiene practices will translate into long-term healthy smiles. 

Dental Cleanings Near Me

Contact Highlight Family Dentistry in Hutto, TX, to learn more about our preventive dentistry services, including routine dental cleanings. We are all about maintaining long-term healthy smiles. Call us at (512) 886-2644 and schedule your appointment today!