Why do I need a cleaning every 6 months?

A cleaning every 6 months is essential for removing plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing can’t fully eliminate. It helps prevent gum disease by removing bacteria from your teeth and gums. Cleanings also allow your dentist to catch any dental problems early, making treatment easier and less expensive. Regular cleanings keep your breath fresh and reduce the risk of oral health issues, which can also impact your overall health.

How often do I need a dental exam?

A dental periodic exam is typically recommended every 6 months for most people. This allows your dentist to closely monitor your oral health, check for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other potential issues, and ensure your teeth stay clean and healthy.
While some people may only need an exam once a year, it’s important to prioritize a 6-month check-up if you want to catch any dental problems early and prevent more serious issues from developing. Regular 6-month exams are especially important for those with a history of cavities, gum disease, or other dental concerns. By sticking to this schedule, you’re helping to maintain your oral health and avoid costly or complex treatments down the road.

Why do I need to take dental x-rays?

Dental X-rays are important because they help your dentist see issues that aren’t visible during a regular exam, like cavities between teeth, bone loss, or hidden infections. They also help track the health of your teeth, gums, and jaw over time.

How often should I take dental x-rays?

You should get dental X-rays at least once a year, as they are crucial for detecting problems that aren’t visible during a regular exam, such as cavities between teeth, bone loss, or infections. Regular X-rays help catch issues early, before they become more serious or costly to treat.

Going over 2 years without X-rays can be risky and may even be considered malpractice. This is because, in that time, your dentist could miss early signs of decay, gum disease, or other conditions that could develop without detection. Keeping up with annual X-rays ensures that nothing is overlooked and your oral health is fully monitored.

Why do I need fluoride?

Fluoride treatments at the dentist help strengthen your teeth and protect them from cavities. Fluoride works by remineralizing (strengthening) areas of your teeth that may have started to demineralize (weaken), making your tooth enamel more resistant to acid attack from bacteria in your mouth and sugary foods.

Does everyone need fluoride?

It’s not necessarily needed for all patients and selectively chosen for patients with higher risk for cavities, multiple cavity fillings done in the past, demineralized (white-bordered, weakened) tooth surfaces, patients with braces, and kids with erupting teeth.

How often do I need fluoride?

The frequency of fluoride treatments depends on your individual dental health and risk factors.

A fluoride treatment every 12 months is typically enough. This is usually given during your regular dental check-ups and cleanings.
For individuals at higher risk of cavities: If you’re more prone to tooth decay (due to factors like dry mouth, gum disease, or a high-sugar diet), your dentist may recommend fluoride treatments more often, perhaps every 3 to 6 months.

Ultimately, your dentist will assess your oral health and recommend the right fluoride treatment schedule based on your risk for cavities and other factors.