It is important to keep regular dental cleaning appointments, whether it is every 3 or 6 months. Your dental hygienist will determine the health status of your mouth, and inform you which time interval is better for you to maintain optimal oral health.
Regular cleaning appointments keep your gum tissue healthy and the bone holding your teeth in place healthy, preventing premature tooth loss. Regular cleanings also extend the longevity of your fillings, crowns, bridges, and implants because your dental hygienist will reach all areas of your mouth, above and below the gums. Even if you brush for two minutes twice a day and floss thoroughly every night, plaque bacteria is left behind.
If you currently have periodontal disease or have had a deeper cleaning/scaling and root planning, then going more frequently for cleanings is the key to keep control or eliminate periodontal disease.
Studies have shown that pregnant women with active periodontal disease are more likely to have preterm babies. The better oral home care the pregnant patient every day between professional dental cleanings, then it is more likely to bring the baby to full term.
Your dental hygienist will inform you of plaque trap areas and then give you tips on how to reach those areas better at home each night. Often times this includes using a Waterpik and soft rubber tip gum simulator to gain access to the plaque traps.
