Professional dental appointments are intended to keep your gums and teeth clean and healthy, which will, in turn, help you avoid paying for costly dental procedures in the future. If you don’t get professional cleanings, bacteria in your mouth will buildup as calculus, releasing acids that inflame the gums, erode tooth enamel, cause tooth decay, stain your teeth, cause bad breath, and even lead to tooth loss. 

While all these problems can be treated, it would be an expensive and time-consuming process compared to simply preventing them with a 45-minute dental appointment. Moreover, dental exams help to detect the early stages of problems, including chips, gum disease, cavities, and even oral cancer, so you can start interventions early to prevent them from getting worse or even reverse them. 

Routine Dental Care

Routine dental care comprises preventive things that you should do ensure optimal health for your teeth and gums. The American Dental Association recommends that you:

• Brush your teeth daily at least twice using an ADA-approved fluoride toothpaste 
• Clean between your teeth everyday using floss or an interdental cleaner 
• Get a new toothbrush every 3-4 months or sooner if you suffer an oral illness 
• Maintain a well-balanced diet and reduce the intake of sugary items and drinks, and snacks between meals 
• Visit your dentist regularly for oral exams and professional cleanings 

Make the Most of Dental Appointments 

During your dental appointments, you can learn more about caring for your teeth and gums. You may consider asking:

• Which toothpaste, toothbrush, floss, or other product should I use for my teeth?
• Based on your examination and my dental/medical history, what is my ideal interval for cleanings?
• What dental diseases am I prone to if any? Why? What can I do to reduce this risk?

Lastly, your dentist will remind you of the best way to care for your mouth, including using proper brushing technique for at least two minutes per session and developing good dental habits, like not using your teeth as a tool to bite nails, open bottles, or crush ice, which contribute to keeping your natural teeth healthy for your lifetime.