How Often Should I Be Getting My Teeth Cleaned?

The miracle of humanity is that our bodies are designed to last up to a hundred years or more. We may be subject to damage, but with proper caution and care, our bodies will serve us well for the many decades that make up the average human lifespan.

When it comes to maintaining your oral health and preserving a strong, functional, and beautiful smile, most adults understand the importance of a dedicated home care routine, complete with daily brushing, flossing, and rinsing with mouthwash, preferably after every meal. That said, you need to do more if you want the best chance to keep your smile looking its best!

You need the professional care that only dentists and their staff can provide, including regular checkups, cleaning, and x-rays to look for damage that cannot be seen by the naked eye. How often should you schedule visits with your dentist? Here are a few considerations.

Your Oral Health

If you're diligent about your home care routine and you've enjoyed excellent oral health for years, chances are you might not need to visit the dentist as often as, say, a patient that has serious oral health concerns like gingivitis, periodontitis, tooth loss, or other high-risk situations. Your dentist can assess your oral health and health history to determine a suitable schedule for visits.

Your Insurance

If your dental insurance covers two cleanings a year, you should absolutely take full advantage of your benefits. After all, you're paying for them. When you visit your dentist for multiple cleanings and checkups each year, you have the best opportunity to catch minor issues before they become major problems that affect your health and your wallet.

Many insurance providers value the low costs of preventive care, which is why they'd rather pay for your cleanings than shell out the dough for claims like crowns or tooth replacement that could have been prevented. As a result, they may not provide full coverage for these procedures. You'll have to check with your insurance provider, but it's always a good idea to utilize whatever preventive care coverage is offered.

Dentist Recommendation

Your dental professional considers your family history, lifestyle habits, and personal health concerns when it comes to recommending a schedule for visits. If your dentist feels you have risk factors for issues like tooth decay and gum disease, he/she might recommend visiting more often. You should always take this into consideration when determining how often to get your teeth cleaned.

Don't hesitate to contact us with questions or to schedule an appointment today.

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