Everyone’s smile is unique, but when it comes to maintaining your good oral health, most people can benefit from similar measures. For example, everyone needs to consistently clean their teeth every day by brushing them twice and flossing them at least once, which is itself a form of preventive dental care. Also, everyone needs to attend professional dental cleanings and checkups at least twice a year, or more often if they have an existing oral health concern to worry about.
When you clean your teeth at home
Both at-home and professional teeth cleaning are important parts of your dental hygiene routine, but cleaning your teeth at home is the most consistent. Typically, good dental hygiene means to brush your teeth at least twice, once in the morning and once in the evening, and floss at least once, preferably before bed time. Every time you clean your teeth, the point is to carefully and thoroughly remove all traces of plaque, which includes oral bacteria and food particles that accumulate throughout the day. Any spot of plaque that you miss will calcify, or harden, into tartar, and remain there until your dentist or hygienist removes it during a professional cleaning.
When your dentist cleans your teeth and gums
For optimal cleanliness, the typical recommendation for dental checkups and cleanings is to visit your dentist at least once every six months. Depending on the rate of plaque formation and calcification, and the amount of tartar that has developed on your teeth, waiting any longer could allow your oral bacteria to lead to conditions like tooth decay, gum disease, or more. Because it’s calcified, tartar can’t be removed with your toothpaste or water, and its development can mark a significant increase in your risks of developing more serious, chronic oral health problems.
Why both cleanings have to be consistent
The buildup of oral bacteria on your teeth and gums is a consistent process. Oral bacteria stay active, and they become more so every time you eat or drink something. The only effective way to protect your oral health from their influence is to be just as consistent with cleaning oral bacteria off of your teeth and along your gum line, both at home and at your dentist’s office. If you miss a cleaning, there’s a chance you may need additional treatment to address the consequences of excess oral bacteria, such as filling a cavity or addressing a case of gingivitis.
Schedule your professional dental cleaning
Both at-home hygiene and professional dental cleaning appointments are necessary for keeping your teeth and gums consistently clean and healthy. To learn more, schedule an appointment or initial consultation by calling Advanced Dental Concepts in Auburn Hills, MI, today at (248) 852-1820.
