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When was the last time you had your teeth professionally cleaned? What may seem like a minor or insignificant procedure can actually safeguard your smile against serious oral health complications. What happens during a cleaning? How often should you have your teeth cleaned?

Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Cleanings

Question: How often should my teeth be cleaned?

Answer: The American Dental Association recommends that people have their teeth professionally cleaned at least once every six months. If a patient exhibits risk factors for gum disease then more frequent appointments may be necessary, such as every three to four months. We will examine your smile before deciding how often a cleaning should be necessary.

Question: What happens during the procedure?

Answer: During the treatment our doctor or hygienist will use either a manual tool or ultrasonic scaler to remove plaque from the teeth. Afterward, we will polish the teeth. The procedure is short, comfortable, and minimally invasive.

Question: What are the benefits of having my teeth cleaned?

Answer: First, removing plaque can reduce your risk of developing both tooth decay and gum disease. The polishing process also removes minor discoloration and can increase the freshness of your breath. Without a cleaning, brushing and flossing alone cannot remove plaque buildup, which occurs as bacteria break down food particles, weakening animal and inflaming gum tissue. However, you should still brush and floss daily even if you have your teeth cleaned regularly.

Question: Do children need to have their teeth cleaned?

Answer: In many cases, children will also benefit from a cleaning. Doing so can decrease the chances of developing gingivitis and cavities. Once your child reaches the age of three, a cleaning may be recommended as part of each six month checkup. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a visit, please contact our friendly and knowledgeable office staff today.

ABOUT YOUR RIVERSIDE DENTISTS:

With offices throughout Riverside Country, including Corona, Temecula, and Moreno https://www.riversidedentalgroup.com/bonding-contouring Valley, Riverside Dental Group is happy to provide advanced general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry services to patients of all ages. To learn more, or to schedule a consultation, call our office today at (951) 689-5031.