How Often Should You Really Get a Dental Cleaning?

Most people have heard the rule: see the dentist twice a year. But is every six months the right schedule for everyone? Not necessarily. At Omnia Dental, we believe in personalized care, and that includes tailoring the frequency of dental visits to each patient’s unique needs rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. Dr. Shtilman and her team are dedicated to your comfort and well-being at every step.

How Often Should You Schedule Dental Cleanings?

The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends scheduling dental visits at intervals determined by your dentist based on your oral health needs. For some, this means twice-yearly appointments. For others, it may mean every three to four months.

So how often should you schedule your dental cleanings? Here is a look at some of the factors that determine the ideal frequency of care:

• Rate of Tartar Buildup: Everyone’s saliva chemistry is different, with some individuals naturally forming calculus (tartar) more quickly than others, requiring more frequent professional cleanings.
• Periodontal Health: If you have a history of periodontal (gum) disease, we typically recommend more frequent professional cleanings, typically every 3 to 4 months, to stay ahead of bacterial buildup below your gumline.
• Tobacco Use: Smoking or using tobacco products can increase your risk of dental decay, periodontal disease, dry mouth, and even oral cancer, which is why we typically recommend more frequent care.
• Chronic Health Conditions: Systemic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease are often linked to oral inflammation, which is why we may recommend more frequent cleanings to help manage it and support your overall well-being.
• Pregnancy: Expectant mothers experience hormonal shifts that can increase the risk of pregnancy gingivitis, which is why we typically recommend at least one additional professional cleaning during pregnancy.

What Happens If You Skip Your Dental Visits?

Did you know that plaque can harden to tartar in just 24 to 72 hours if not removed by brushing and flossing? At this point, only professional dental tools can effectively remove these deposits.

Plaque and tartar buildup can, over time, increase the risk of tooth decay, which, left untreated, can require extensive procedures such as root canal treatment rather than simple fillings. It can also lead to periodontal disease, which can cause complications, such as bone loss, loose teeth, and even tooth loss.

At Omnia Dental, we are proponents of preventive care, including regular dental cleanings, to reduce your risk of dental disease and detect minor problems before they progress, helping keep dental disease at bay. We strive to lay the foundation for a lifetime of healthy, beautiful smiles.

Preventive Dentistry Near Me in Buffalo Grove, IL

Staying on top of your dental cleanings is one of the simplest and most effective ways you can support your long-term health. Dr. Shtilman and her patient-centered team at Omnia Dental are committed to keeping your smile healthy for years to come. We invite you to call us at 847-495-2292 to schedule your appointment or request one online today!