The short answer is--for most patients--about six months. But the bigger question is perhaps, why? It mostly has to do with plaque and the way it affects our teeth. Routine cleanings are but one aspect of preventive care, although a very important one. They're just as important as our diligent daily brushing and flossing, and a tooth-healthy diet. But preventive care is not all just about plaque, as our dental health could be threatened from many other fronts, and that is why along with routine cleanings that routine checkups are also key to preventing complications down the road. Learn much more by getting in contact with your very own Carson City, NV, dentist of Marvel Dental Dr. Jamie Marvel Melarkey.
Daily Brushing and Flossing
The very core blocks of preventive dentistry are brushing and flossing. Professionals recommend brushing twice a day and flossing once. The reason why this must be done so often is that plaque builds on our teeth every day. Plaque is made up of food particles, saliva, and bacteria, and it clings to our teeth.
Brushing removes most of it and flossing eliminates it from the spaces where the bristles on our toothbrushes can't reach.
So doesn't it seem like this would be enough?
Routine Cleanings
The problem is that even if we are very careful there is usually some plaque left over, more so the less careful we are about our brushing and flossing. Leftover plaque hardens over time and is practically impossible to remove at home.
This is where routine cleanings come in.
They can remove this built-up tartar and remaining plaque, and finally polish your teeth so that it's more difficult for plaque to cling to the enamel.
General Dentistry in Carson City, NV
Regular cleanings in the office along with good hygiene habits at home can keep plaque and its damaging effects at bay. Along with the cleaning the same visit also includes a dental checkup by your Carson City, NV, dentist. Regular checkups can help your dentist catch potential problems before they become something major. So if it's been over six months that you were in the office, dial (775) 884-3322 to make an appointment with Dr. Marvel of Marvel Dental in Carson City, NV.