Everyone knows you should have your teeth cleaned every six months, right? Well, maybe. The truth is, as it is for many things, it depends! For many people with healthy teeth and gums, a regular cleaning and checkup every six months works just fine. Sometimes, however, your dentist or hygienist may recommend more frequent cleanings, as is often the case with gum disease. Let’s explore the difference between a regular, preventative cleaning that occurs every six months and a more specialized type of cleaning that is needed when you have gum disease, called periodontal maintenance.
Preventative Cleaning
When you visit the dentist for your routine, six-month checkup, the appointment will typically include a visual examination of your teeth, gums and mouth; X-rays to check for cavities and other problems; a thorough cleaning to remove plaque and tartar from your teeth; and sometimes even fluoride treatment to strengthen your teeth. These preventative checkups are similar to an annual wellness visit with your medical doctor — they provide your mouth with regular care to prevent cavities, gum disease and other oral health issues. They also help to detect and treat minor issues before they become more serious (and costly!) problems.
For example, if, at one of these visits, your hygienist detects a mild form of gum disease called gingivitis, they can provide you with oral health care tips to resolve the issue while it’s still reversible. In most cases, you should be able to maintain your six-month cleaning frequency. On the other hand, if your gum disease progresses to a more serious form called periodontitis, these six-month, preventative cleanings will no longer be appropriate.
Periodontal Maintenance Treatment
Because periodontitis can damage the tissue and bone that support your teeth, more extensive and frequent cleanings are required to stop the ongoing progression of the disease. If you are diagnosed with periodontitis, you’ll typically begin with a specialized type of cleaning known as gum therapy (also called scaling and root planing) to remove bacteria under the gums and prevent further bone loss. This will be followed by periodontal maintenance cleanings every three to four months. Periodontal treatment includes many of the same aspects of a regular cleaning, like plaque removal and polishing. An ultrasonic instrument is used to gently remove deposits and bacteria under the gums and at the base of the deep pockets that have formed.
Other treatments, like localized antimicrobial placement or laser therapy, may be recommended alongside periodontal maintenance depending on your specific case.
Our Commitment to You
Maintaining good oral health is a partnership between you and your dental team. Whether you’re visiting for a regular preventative cleaning or receiving periodontal maintenance, know that we’re here to support you every step of the way. Please don’t hesitate to ask us any questions about the treatment or cleaning frequency we’ve recommended for you. We look forward to seeing you at your next appointment and helping you achieve a healthy, happy smile!