Brushing twice a day and flossing daily are the foundation of a healthy smile. But even the most careful routine misses a few spots, which is why dentists recommend a professional cleaning and exam about every six months. Here’s what happens at those visits, and why the timing matters.
Brushing and flossing can’t remove tartar
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth every day. When it isn’t removed, it can begin to harden into tartar (also called calculus) within a day or two. Tartar bonds to your teeth so firmly that a toothbrush and floss can’t remove it; only a dental hygienist, using professional instruments, can take it off safely. Left in place, tartar keeps irritating your gums and gives bacteria a place to grow.
Catching problems while they’re small
Cavities and early gum disease rarely hurt at first. At each visit, the dentist checks every tooth, your gums and your bite, and takes X-rays when needed. That means problems are found while a small filling or a deeper cleaning can fix them, instead of a root canal, a crown or an extraction later on. Regular visits usually cost far less, in time and money, than treating a problem that has been growing unnoticed.
Protecting your gums
Red, swollen gums that bleed when you brush are a sign of gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. At this stage it can be reversed with professional cleanings and good home care. Untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, which damages the bone that holds your teeth in place and is a leading cause of tooth loss in adults.
Your mouth and your overall health
Research has linked gum disease to other health conditions, including heart disease and diabetes. Keeping your gums healthy is one more way to take care of your whole body.
A brighter, fresher smile
Polishing removes surface stains from coffee, tea and wine, and a thorough cleaning helps with persistent bad breath caused by bacteria along and below the gumline. Most patients leave with teeth that feel noticeably smoother and cleaner.
What happens during a cleaning at Elite Dental Touch
A professional teeth cleaning at our Miramar office is gentle and unhurried. A typical visit includes:
- A review of your health history and any concerns you have
- Removal of plaque and tartar above and just below the gumline
- Polishing to remove surface stains
- Flossing, plus home-care tips tailored to your teeth
- A checkup by the dentist, including your gums, tongue and soft tissues, with X-rays when needed
If you feel nervous about dental visits, let us know. We’ll explain every step and go at your pace.
Is every six months right for everyone?
Twice a year works well for most people. Some patients, such as those with a history of gum disease, diabetes, a tendency to build up tartar quickly, or who smoke, may benefit from visits every three or four months. Your dentist will recommend the schedule that’s right for you.
Your insurance likely covers it
Many dental insurance plans cover two preventive cleanings and exams each year, often at little or no cost to you. We accept most major PPO dental plans and offer flexible financing for patients without insurance.
Book your next cleaning
It’s been six months, or longer? Request an appointment online or call us at 954-406-7206. New patients are always welcome, and se habla español.