The best way to achieve and maintain the smile of your dreams is to combine diligent at-home care with state-of-the-art professional treatment.
The American Dental Association recommends that both adult and pediatric patients complete preventive professional cleanings every six months or so. Today our Santa Monica dentists are going to be giving you some more information about why this is the case. Keep reading to learn more…
What happens during a dental appointment?
So many things! Our dental team will assess your teeth and gums, looking for signs of infection or damage. Then we’ll clear away accumulated plaque and calcified plaque (called tartar). We’ll polish your smile so that it looks and feels fresh. Our team will also complete an oral cancer screening, to spot and treat cancerous tissues in their earliest stages.
Do I need to do this even if my smile feels fine?
As you may have noticed, our team completes a number of assessments during each appointment. We are able to see damage that is invisible to our patients: enabling proactive, timely treatment. Another thing to keep in mind is that tartar, once it has bonded to your teeth, really requires professional tools to remove. The key is to remove harmful substances, like tartar, on a regular basis, so they don’t have a chance to do damage.
How often should I be seeing my dentist?
The general recommendation from the ADA is to schedule professional appointments twice a year, about six months apart. There are some health conditions, like periodontal disease and diabetes, that necessitate more frequent treatment.
Oops, it’s been awhile since I’ve been to the dentist, what should I do?
You are not alone! We hear from so many people who have fallen behind on professional care. It is never too late to get back on track. Even if it has been years since you have been in for a cleaning or treatment, give our Santa Monica dentists a call to get started again!