There are two types of teeth cleaning – one is when you do it at home, and the other is a professional dental cleaning in Birmingham. Getting your teeth cleaned is vital for your oral health. Remember that plaque constantly forms on your teeth, which is why it’s paramount that you remove it daily.
Studies show that it only takes as little as 48 hours for plaque to harden into tartar. If it reaches this point, it’s almost impossible to get rid of them with your toothbrush and dental floss alone. The only way to completely scrape tartar from your teeth is to see your dentist.
How Often Should You Clean Your Teeth?
Oral Care at Home
Oral care should be done daily. To start, dentists suggest you select a soft-bristled toothbrush with an easy-grip handle. The head is small enough to reach almost all areas of your mouth. If you have arthritis, we prefer you go for a power toothbrush.
Brushing should be done daily, preferably 30 minutes after your meal. The American Dental Association urges everyone to brush twice a day for two minutes, dividing the two minutes into all four quadrants.
Position your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle toward the area where your gums and teeth meet. Next, be mindful of your brushing strokes. Don’t brush too hard, as this can lead to premature enamel erosion and gum recession.
Be gentle on your teeth. If unsure, ask your dentist to demonstrate how it’s done. Another important reminder is to replace your toothbrush every three months. But if the bristles already look deformed and worn before hitting the three-month mark, you should still replace them.
Aside from brushing, you must also make flossing a part of your oral care routine. Flossing is the only way to remove plaque and bacteria between your teeth. Even though your toothbrush can remove plaque, there will still be places that are difficult to reach; that’s why flossing is essential.
Dentists recommend flossing at least once a day. They prefer that you floss before brushing right before going to bed. Again, if unsure of the technique, you can ask your dentist to show you how. Be gentle on your gums when flossing, as you might accidentally puncture them.
Professional Dental Cleanings
Professional in-office teeth cleanings are just as important as your oral care routine. But instead of daily, you only need to schedule an appointment once every six months or twice annually. However, if you have a high-cavity risk or exhibit symptoms of gum disease, you may need to visit more frequently. Your dentist will decide how often you should go back for a cleaning.
One of the reasons why dental cleanings are encouraged is to prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar. When tartar is allowed to accumulate, your risk of developing tooth decay, cavities, gum disease, and infections increase, making you susceptible to tooth loss.
Besides removing plaque and tartar, these visits also allow your dentist to check your mouth for any signs of trouble. Early detection means your dentist can still use conservative methods in treating the problem.
Schedule a Dental Cleaning in Birmingham With Us
The frequency of your cleanings will depend mainly on your oral needs. Since every patient is different, we advise that you consult with your dentist. We strive to provide you with the best dental services at Church Family Dental. We use advanced tools and modern technology to give you a beautiful smile and transform your oral health for the better. Contact us today for a consultation.
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