Nobody questions the importance of regular oil changes for their car it's a well established maintenance routine. Dental cleanings and preventive care should be just as automatic! Here are three reasons to schedule them regularly, along with our recommendations for appointment frequency.

1. First Reason: Prevent Cavities

   Brushing and flossing are excellent ways to maintain oral health, but they aren't enough to remove all the deposits that accumulate on teeth. Only dental instruments can perform a deep cleaning that removes tartar and plaque from hard-to-reach areas. This cleaning also eliminates bacteria that cause cavities.
   
   Did you know that tooth decay is the most prevalent disease worldwide? The World Health Organization states that about 3.5 billion people will have at least one cavity in their lifetime - nearly half the global population! Sugary and acidic foods are the main culprits. The bacteria that cause cavities are found in large quantities in dental plaque (the whitish deposit that accumulates on tooth surfaces). Thus, a professional dental cleaning effectively removes plaque and prevents cavities.




2. Second Reason: Detect Problems Early

   Dental cleanings are often paired with an exam where dentists can diagnose potential health issues that might otherwise go unnoticed. Some diseases show no symptoms for a long time and become harder to treat when symptoms appear. Oral cancer, for example, is one condition dentists can detect early. Your dentist can also provide advice if you have risk factors for disease.
   
   Teeth aren't the only focus during a dental exam. Dentists examine gums, tongue, inner cheeks, and palate, areas where signs of certain diseases may appear.




3. Third Reason: Avoid Impacts on Overall Health

   Oral bacteria can also harm general health. When present in large quantities, these bacteria don't stay in the mouth but circulate through blood vessels. They may even be linked to cardiovascular diseases like hypertension and cause other health problems.
   
   Additionally, oral bacteria can transfer between people through close contact like kissing. When you get professional cleanings, you're doing your partner a favor too - something you might not have considered before!




4. How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?

   The Canadian Dental Association recommends professional cleanings at least every six months - our standard recommendation for most patients. However, some may need cleanings every 3-4 months depending on factors like diet and smoking.
   
   For children, we also recommend cleanings twice yearly. Note that Quebec's RAMQ health insurance covers annual dental exams for children under 10, but not cleanings (though private insurance may cover all or part of these costs).




5. Make It a Routine

   Even with good oral hygiene, regular professional cleanings are essential. Cleanings every six months disrupt unwanted bacterial growth, even if you don't see visible tartar. Helpful tip: Note your next appointment in your calendar a few weeks before your desired date. You can often schedule your next visit before leaving the office.
   
   And if you can't remember your last cleaning... that means it's time to see us!