How Often Should You See a Dental Hygienist?

If you’ve got gum disease, tend to build up plaque quickly, or have lifestyle habits (like smoking) that affect your teeth, your dentist might suggest visits every 3-4 months. Regular cleans also help catch any issues before they become bigger headaches.

If you’re rocking braces or dental work, you’ll definitely want to visit more regularly to keep those tricky spots clean.

What Happens During a Dental Clean? 

When you visit your hygienist, they’ll remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums. Here’s what usually happens:

• Scaling: Your hygienist will use special tools to clean all the plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline.
• Polishing: After that, they’ll give your teeth a good polish, leaving them smooth and shiny.
• Fluoride Treatment: Sometimes, they’ll apply fluoride to help protect your teeth and keep decay away.
• Oral Health Check: They’ll check your gums for signs of disease and have a look around for any other issues, like cavities or plaque buildup.

Regular visits are key to keeping your teeth free of plaque and tartar, helping to prevent bigger issues down the track.

How to Keep Your Teeth in Shape Between Appointments 

It’s not just about the visits—what you do at home makes a big difference! Here’s how you can keep your smile looking fresh:

• Brush Properly: 

Brush your teeth at least twice a day for 2 minutes. Make sure you’re brushing all surfaces of your teeth, not just the front ones. If you’re in a rush, set a timer to make sure you’re brushing long enough.

• Floss or use interdental brushes: 

Flossing is awesome for cleaning those tricky spots between your teeth. If you’re not a fan, try interdental brushes—they’re easy to use and come in all sorts of sizes.

• Mouthwash: 

Mouthwash is great for fresh breath and killing bacteria, but it’s not a replacement for brushing and flossing. Use it alongside your regular routine for extra freshness.

• Go easy on sugary snacks: 

Sugary foods and drinks are a big culprit for plaque buildup. If you’ve had something sweet, try to brush or rinse your mouth afterwards to help prevent sugar from sticking around.

• Drink Water: 

Water’s your best mate when it comes to washing away food and bacteria, keeping your mouth fresh, and keeping your gums healthy.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long does a clean take?

A clean usually takes about 30-45 minutes, but if you haven’t been in for a while, it might take a bit longer. Your hygienist will make sure you’re comfortable the whole time.

• What if I have sensitive teeth?
  
  No worries! Let your hygienist know, and they’ll be gentle, using special techniques or numbing gels to make sure you’re at ease.
• What happens if I miss my appointment?
  
  If you miss a clean, plaque and tartar can build up, which might lead to gum issues or even gum disease. It’s always better to stay ahead of any problems, so if you’ve missed your last appointment, give your clinic a ring and book in!
• What if I have braces or other dental work?
  
  Regular cleans are especially important if you’ve got braces or dental appliances. Your hygienist will make sure everything’s nice and clean around those tricky spots.
• Can a hygienist help with bad breath?
  
  Definitely! Bad breath is often caused by plaque or gum disease. Your hygienist will give your teeth a thorough clean and can recommend mouthwashes to freshen up your breath.

Stay on top of your brushing, flossing, and regular cleans, and you’ll be flashing a fresh smile all year long! If it’s time for your next clean, or you’ve got any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at Primecare Dental. We’re here to help you keep your smile looking mint!