It's a common belief that getting your teeth professionally cleaned every six months is enough to maintain good oral health. However, research has found that, in some cases, more frequent cleanings can be beneficial. According to the Canadian Dental Association, 7 out of 10 Canadians will develop gum disease at some point in their lives, and it's the most common dental problem. A recent study published in the Journal of Dental Research found that for many people, a once-a-year dental cleaning may be enough to prevent gum disease that causes tooth loss.
However, some people are at greater risk of tooth decay or gum disease, and this group should have their teeth cleaned more often. General guidelines indicate that patients should schedule an appointment for professional dental cleanings every six months. This is also covered by most private health insurance plans. Professional cleanings aren't just about keeping your smile bright and glowing, but they're also crucial to maintaining your oral and overall health.
If you take medications, it's important to have regular checkups and cleanings to help detect problems before they get serious. These medications can complicate the process of an extraction or other dental procedure. Other patients will hardly experience dental problems, meaning that they will likely need to have their teeth cleaned less frequently. A dental cleaning will reduce the chance of tooth decay or gum disease by significantly reducing the amount of plaque and stones in the mouth.