How Often Should I Schedule a Dental Cleaning?

“Routine” dental cleanings are considered prophylactic procedures. That is, they’re performed often enough to help prevent major oral health conditions that might otherwise require treatment. Dental prophylaxis with your hygienist generally includes a cleaning, gum disease screening, oral hygiene education, cancer screening, and an exam with our dentist.

Typically, most people with healthy mouths benefit from a preventative cleaning every six months. That’s why the majority of dental insurance plans also include coverage for cleanings and checkups twice per year. Depending on your carrier, these checkups are typically covered at 100% (or at least close to it).

What Happens if Cleanings are Skipped?

During a preventative cleaning appointment, we’re removing the buildup that’s accumulated on your teeth since your last appointment. Naturally, skipping preventative care visits (checkups) means there will be more tartar and stain buildup by the time you make it back into the dentist’s office. And the more buildup there is, the greater chance it has accumulated down under your gum tissues. Once that happens, it can trigger gum disease and create deep “pockets” around each tooth.

Unfortunately gum disease isn’t completely reversible, and it damages the tissues that are responsible for supporting your teeth. That’s why it’s so important to maintain regular checkups on a recurring basis.

Healthy Teeth at Every Checkup

It’s a great thing to have healthy, clean teeth and gums whenever you visit us for a checkup. But don’t let that fool you into thinking you don’t need to see the dentist less frequently. It means your preventative care plan is doing what it’s supposed to do!

If it’s been six months since your last checkup, call Sapphire Creek Dental today to schedule.