The health of our teeth can mirror our overall well-being. Regular cleanings play an important role in our oral health, so how often should you get your teeth cleaned?
You should visit your dentist twice a year, ideally every six months. At a minimum, once a year. During these visits, it’s best to get a professional cleaning to remove plaque, help prevent gumline decay, and check for any oral health concerns. Children should begin seeing a dentist for cleanings, or at least for general exams, once their first tooth appears.
People with diabetes, however, may need to get their teeth cleaned every 3-4 months. Studies have shown that diabetes is associated with an increased risk of periodontitis. Gum disease can raise your blood sugar levels. At the very least, people with diabetes should schedule dental visits more often than the typical 6-month interval. Professional teeth cleanings and good oral hygiene can help a diabetic lower their HbA1c
Susquehanna Dental Arts staff makes it a priority to build a rapport with our patients and adhere to holistic dental services to contribute to their overall well-being. Are you ready to meet our caring staff and schedule your next professional teeth cleaning?
Keep reading to learn more about the frequency of professional teeth cleaning and how it impacts one’s overall health.
Is it OK To Get Your Teeth Cleaned Once a Year?
Most people benefit greatly from twice-a-year dental cleanings.
Preventive dental care, which includes bi-annual cleanings and office visits, is one of the basic areas typically covered under dental care insurance plans. Because our teeth have many hard-to-reach areas that regular brushing and flossing can’t adequately cleanse, we recommend you stick with bi-annual cleanings. Check with your insurance provider to verify what areas of dental care are covered and how frequently.
As an accredited member of the International Academy of Oral Medicine & Toxicology, Dr. Allison offers mercury-free and biocompatible dentistry. Your bi-annual exams could contribute to improved overall health. Regular dental checkups mean oral cancer screenings, filling examinations, and blood pressure monitoring. It’s not just a cleaning!
How Often Do People Go to the Dentist?
Studies have found that yearly visits are the most common frequency when it comes to dental visits. The National Health Interview Survey Early Release 2019 reports nearly 65% percent of adults visited their dentist in the past year. Four factors are associated with infrequent dental checkups: being male, having lower income levels, not having a usual place for care, and being anxious about receiving dental care (Determining dental checkup frequency).
We offer tips to our patients on how to overcome your fear of the dentist and alleviate the anxiety associated with dental care: How Common is Fear of the Dentist and Can I Get Rid of My Fear?
How Often Should You Get Teeth Cleaned with Braces?
Having professional teeth cleaning every six months while wearing orthodontics can reduce the risk of dental disease. This also applies to those who are using clear alignment devices. If you have any concerns regarding a cleaning while under the care of your orthodontist, we’ll be happy to speak with you about your concerns.
Now that you’ve learned the importance of regular teeth cleanings and dental visits, we hope you’ll schedule a visit with us soon. Remember, in between your visits, be sure to brush and floss regularly and avoid excessive amounts of sugary treats and keep the 5 Good Dental Habits listed in this article.
As always, we welcome any questions you have regarding your dental health.