How Often Should You Visit a Dental Hygienist for a Teeth Cleaning?

You’ve probably heard how important it is to get a professional teeth cleaning to reduce the risk of cavities and gum disease, but how often do you really need to schedule a cleaning? If you have good oral hygiene habits and a healthy mouth, your dentist and dental hygienist will probably suggest professional teeth cleaning at least twice a year. Many dental insurance policies will cover two cleanings per year, but few people take full advantage of their benefits. The twice-a-year recommendation isn’t random; there are good reasons behind it.

Plaque Makes a Hasty Return After a Teeth Cleaning


A teeth cleaning removes the bacteria that cause plaque, but it begins to re-colonize in your mouth within 24 to 48 hours. Even if you are practicing great dental care at home, some plaque reformation before six months have passed is inevitable. The longer it stays in place, the more of it will calcify onto your teeth. Once it reaches this stage, you won’t be able to remove it yourself. It will require the special tools and skills of your dental hygienist. If you have a professional teeth cleaning twice a year, you are less likely to experience a heavy plaque and tartar buildup that could seriously affect your oral health.

Early Warning System

Visiting your dentist or dental hygienist can also reveal early signs of problems that are much more serious than plaque. During a cleaning or exam, it’s easy to spot signs of oral cancer, new cavities, receding gums, and even signs of anemia or other medical problems. Since gum disease is linked to cardiovascular disease, catching it as early as possible can even lower your risk of heart attack and stroke. If you haven’t made professional teeth cleaning a priority, it’s not too late. Schedule an appointment today.

Source: Dental One Associates