FAQs: Why Do We Need Dental Cleanings?

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When was the last time you had your teeth cleaned? Why do we need dental cleanings? What may seem like a minor procedure can actually protect your smile from periodontal disease. If you haven’t had your teeth cleaned recently, you should consider scheduling a visit with a dental professional right away. This simple preventive procedure can strengthen the health and beauty of your smile.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Cleanings

Question: How often do we need a cleaning?

Answer: On average, the American Dental Association suggests a dental cleaning once every six months for both children and adults. However, patients who are susceptible to gum disease may require more frequent cleanings. This frequency is based on solid research related to how quickly pathogens re-populate the periodontal pocket. We will exam your smile and assess your risk factors for periodontal issues. We can then decide how often you should see the periodontist for a cleaning.

Question: What does this procedure involve?

Answer: During a traditional cleaning, the periodontist or hygienist will remove plaque from the surface of your teeth. Since plaque can irritate the gums and lead to inflammation, removing buildup can actually help prevent gum disease.

Question: Can a cleaning be used to address gum disease?

Answer: If a patient already exhibits the symptoms of periodontal disease, we may need to perform periodontal therapy, this involves removing plaque from the teeth and root surfaces below the gum line.

Question: How do I keep my smile clean from home?

Answer: Along with cleanings, you should try to keep your smile clean from home. By brushing and flossing your teeth daily, you help reduce the severity of plaque buildup.

ABOUT YOUR SAN DIEGO PERIODONTIST:

To learn how to keep your teeth and gums healthy for life, subscribe to this blog, and visit Dr. Kania for a consultation. As a board-certified periodontist, Dr. Ann Kania is specially qualified to diagnose and treat issues concerning periodontal tissue and the supportive structures of a patient’s smile, as well as place dental implants to restore teeth lost to dental disease or trauma. To seek Dr. Kania’s expertise, visit our office or contact us today at (760) 642-0711.