At Blevins Dentistry, we recommend getting your teeth cleaned every six months to protect your smile. But in 2014, a study by the showed that only half of adults went to the dentist for teeth cleanings every six months. In fact, more than one in five adults said they hadn’t visited the dentist in the last few years.
Many people agree that brushing and flossing regularly is important, even if they struggle to form the habit. But seeing the dentist twice a year for a teeth cleaning isn’t as common, even though it’s just as vital in protecting your oral health.
Let’s take a look at how regular teeth cleanings can go a long way in protecting your smile.
Why should you brush your teeth and floss in the first place? We recommend basic oral hygiene habits to our patients because these practices help remove plaque from their gums and teeth.
is a thin film that develops on your teeth naturally every day. If plaque is left alone, then bacteria will consume it and produce acids that damage your teeth and gums.
Brushing and flossing is the only way to get rid of plaque. However, many people don’t brush correctly or for as long as they should. Many don’t floss at all. That means that even if you’re brushing your teeth every day, you may leave some plaque behind.
Plaque will eventually build up into a hard substance known as . Tartar, unfortunately, cannot be removed with simple oral hygiene habits. Only a professional teeth cleaning can remove tartar completely from your gums and teeth.
If tartar isn’t removed, then it can cause cavities or gum disease. By getting your teeth cleaned regularly, our dental hygienists can remove tartar from your teeth and gums and prevent more serious oral health issues from developing.
Regular teeth cleanings provide a great opportunity for Dr. Blevins to conduct a dental examination during your visit. Dental exams help us keep an eye on your oral health, prevent certain oral health issues, and treat existing problems while they’re still minor.
You may be due for updated diagnostic X-rays so we can get a clear picture of your teeth, gums, and jawbone. We may recommend an oral cancer screening depending on your age, risk factors, and last checkup.
Even if you don’t need X-rays or screenings, a dental examination allows our dentist to visually examine your mouth and teeth for signs of trouble. Dr. Blevins will also evaluate any previous dental work you’ve had done to make sure everything is still functioning properly.
Curious about teeth whitening? Wondering if your minor toothache will just go away on its own? If you have an oral health question on your mind, it’s nice to ask someone you can trust instead of relying on the conflicting advice you can find on the internet.
By visiting Blevins Dentistry every six months for a teeth cleaning, you’ll have time built into your schedule to ask Dr. Blevins whatever dental questions you have. Dr. Blevins will be able to give you recommendations that are specific to your dental history and current situation, so you can feel confident in making decisions about your oral health.
Our Mullins, SC, preventive dentist recommends teeth cleanings every six months to protect your smile and your oral health. To schedule your next appointment, call Blevins Dentistry today at (843) 561-4039, or contact us online.
We Can’t Wait to Help You Create Your Dream Smile!