The best way to care for your smile, and to enjoy oral health for years to come, is to combine diligent at-home dental care with professional treatments. One of the most important things that you can do as a dental patient is to keep up with your schedule of semi-annual professional dental cleanings. These in-office cleanings are exceptionally effective, and can make a huge difference for the health of your smile down the road.
Our Toluca Lake dentists recommend that patients come in for professional cleanings every six months, because:
· During these appointments we are able to clean away plaque and tartar that has built up on your smile over the past months. This plaque and tartar is difficult or impossible for you to remove on your own at home.
· We take this opportunity to check your mouth for any spots of cavity development or gum disease. If we do see some troublesome spots on your smile, we can make prompt treatment recommendations, so that these oral health issues do not get out of control.
· Our dentist completes oral cancer screenings during semi-annual appointments. Oral cancers, because they often develop asymptomatically, are very difficult for patients to spot at home. Our dentist is trained to notice early signs of cancerous tissues, so that we can, hopefully, treat any problems in their earliest stages.
It is the general recommendation of the American Dental Association that patients of all ages complete professional cleanings every six months. Some people may need to come in for cleanings more frequently, depending on existing oral health problems, and/or weakened teeth/oral tissues. Your dentist will provide you with a personalized recommendation when you meet with them.
Even if it has been a long time since you have completed a dental cleaning, please feel free to contact our Toluca Lake dentists for additional information and support. We are here to help you reclaim a strong and resilient smile!