Visiting a general dentist for routine cleanings is essential for preventing common dental problems such as tooth decay or gum disease. While brushing and flossing every day can help remove a majority of bacteria and plaque from the teeth, it is impossible to completely remove all buildup. Frequently scheduling dental cleanings makes it possible to address tartar buildup before it causes damage and gives the dentist an opportunity to examine the mouth for any issues that need to be addressed.
How often a patient should visit a dentist for a dental cleaning depends on the condition of the patient’s mouth and the presence of any bad oral habits, such as smoking or teeth grinding. In general, the average patient with healthy gums should schedule a cleaning at least twice a year. An easy way to create a habit of maintaining a strict cleaning schedule is to set an appointment for six months in the future after every visit. For patients who smoke, suffer from diabetes or have a history of periodontal disease, the dentist may recommend more frequent visits as a preventative measure.
For some patients, dental phobia or general anxiety about visiting the dentist can keep them from making a cleaning appointment. Knowing what to expect during a cleaning can help ease these anxieties.
There are several basic tools dentists and hygienists use to clean and examine the mouth:
It is not uncommon for patients to experience some level of bleeding after a cleaning, especially if the patient does not frequently floss or there is a lot of buildup on the teeth. Cleanings by a general dentist can cause gum sensitivity that lasts for a couple of days following the appointment. While having teeth cleaned should not cause excessive pain, trauma to the mouth, decay or jaw disorders can make patients uncomfortable during the process.
Visiting a general dentist at least twice a year can limit the amount of dental work a patient needs by preventing dental decay and gum disease from progressing. If it has been a while since you have visited the dentist, make an appointment right away to ensure no problems have developed.
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