Most people wonder why they’re asked to return every 6 months for a professional teeth cleaning if there’s nothing outwardly wrong with their smile. No, our Brighton, MI, dentists aren’t simply bringing you back in for fun. In actuality, the use of specialized tools and a trained eye combine to give your teeth a level of cleanliness that can’t otherwise be attained inside your house.
Here’s why scheduling a teeth cleaning at least twice a year is a key part of preventive dental care.
Daily brushing and flossing remove food particles and plaque from the surfaces of your teeth and along the gumline. However, even the most careful brushing can’t always reach every corner of your mouth. Over time, plaque hardens into tartar, a calcified deposit that only professional equipment can remove. The is designed to address these areas, ensuring your teeth and gums stay healthy.
During a teeth cleaning appointment, one of our dental hygienists uses handheld dental tools to remove plaque and tartar buildup from your teeth. This step not only protects against cavities but also helps with gum disease prevention, the latter of which conditions can lead to more severe oral health issues if left untreated.
While brushing and flossing at home are vital for maintaining oral hygiene, they can’t address every aspect of dental health. Teeth cleanings inside our Brighton, MI, dental office surpass what your toothbrush and floss can achieve, targeting issues that arise from factors like tartar buildup, hard-to-reach areas, and stubborn tooth stains. These dental cleanings don’t just protect your teeth, they also enhance your smile’s appearance and overall health.
Beyond plaque and tartar removal, professional teeth cleanings provide opportunities to enhance your oral health in ways you can’t achieve at home. For instance, after your teeth cleaning, our dentists may recommend a professional fluoride treatment to strengthen enamel and protect against cavities. This simple step is particularly beneficial for individuals who show signs of gum recession and are prone to decay.
We can also recommend the application of dental sealants for children, teens, and adults who are susceptible to cavity formation. Sealants can be applied to the chewing surfaces of molars to prevent food particles and bacteria from settling into grooves and causing issues.
regularly is also an essential precursor to cosmetic or restorative dental procedures. If you’re considering improving the appearance of your smile with porcelain veneers or other cosmetic enhancements, starting with a professional cleaning ensures a clean and healthy foundation. Teeth free of plaque and tartar make it easier to plan treatments, whether the goal is a brighter smile or to build back areas with damaged or missing teeth.
The American Dental Association recommends that most people receive professional teeth cleanings every 6 months, or twice a year. However, if you have specific dental concerns, such as a history of gum disease or extensive restorations, we may suggest more frequent visits. These regular appointments provide a chance for our dentists to monitor your oral health, address potential issues early, and keep your teeth and gums in optimal condition.
Just because your teeth seem okay at the moment and there are no obvious problems, doesn’t mean a cleaning and exam from our , isn’t still a good idea. Call Schaefer Dental Group today at (810) 229-2126 to request an appointment and stay on top of things or get your smile back on track.