Maintaining good oral health is about more than just brushing and flossing. Regular dental checkups prevent serious dental issues and brighten your smile. But how often should you see a dentist for a cleaning?
If you’re unsure when your last visit was or if you’ve been delaying your appointment, this article will help you recognize the signs that it’s time to schedule a checkup with a dental clinic near you.
Your Gums Look Swollen
One of the most obvious signs that you’re overdue for a dental visit is swollen gums. Your gums may become inflamed due to bacteria, tartar, or plaque buildup. This happens because your mouth reacts to foreign substances, causing redness and swelling along the gumline.
While you might not always feel discomfort, swollen gums signal something isn’t right. A visit to a dentist in Downtown Calgary can help catch this issue early before it develops into something more serious, such as gum disease.
You Notice Bleeding Gums
If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, it’s a red flag that you shouldn’t ignore. Healthy gums shouldn’t bleed easily. Occasional bleeding might be due to brushing too hard, but frequent bleeding is a sign of potential gum disease or poor oral hygiene.
Bleeding gums indicate that plaque and tartar have built up along your gumline, making your gums sensitive and prone to infection. Regular dental cleanings are essential to remove these deposits and keep your gums healthy. If you’ve noticed pink in the sink while brushing, it’s time to visit a dental clinic near you.
Bad Breath That Doesn’t Go Away
Bad breath can be more than just an embarrassing social issue. Persistent bad breath, known as halitosis, is often a sign that you’re overdue for a professional cleaning. Bacteria in your mouth feed on food particles and produce foul-smelling odors.
Even if you brush and floss regularly, bacteria can hide in hard-to-reach areas of your mouth. Professional cleaning removes bacteria and plaque buildup, leaving your breath fresher. So, if friends or family have commented on your breath or you’ve noticed it yourself, it’s time for a dental checkup.
Your Teeth Are Discolored
Do your pearly whites look a little less pearly? Over time, the natural whiteness of your teeth can fade due to coffee, tea, wine, or simply ageing. If you’ve noticed stains or discoloration, it’s a sign that you need a cleaning.
While at-home whitening products might help, they won’t remove the deeper plaque and tartar that can cause staining. Regular professional cleanings every six months can help maintain the whiteness of your teeth and prevent discoloration from worsening.
You Have Tooth Sensitivity
If your teeth hurt when eating cold foods like ice cream or hot beverages like coffee, it could be a sign of underlying dental issues. Tooth sensitivity often develops when the enamel wears down or gums recede, exposing the underlying dentin.
Regular dental checkups can catch tooth sensitivity early and treat the underlying cause. Whether due to enamel erosion or gum recession, your dentist can help restore your comfort and protect your teeth from further damage.
You Can’t Remember Your Last Checkup
One of the simplest ways to know you’re overdue for a dental checkup is if you can’t remember the last time you went! Most people should see a dentist for cleanings every six months, but this can vary depending on oral health needs.
Regular visits allow your dentist to catch small issues before they become bigger problems. If it’s been more than six months since your last checkup, it’s time to schedule an appointment to ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy.
How Often Should You See a Dentist for a Cleaning?
The general recommendation is to visit your dentist every six months for a cleaning. However, depending on your dental health, your dentist may suggest more frequent visits. Regular checkups help remove plaque and tartar, which can’t be eliminated through brushing and flossing alone.
If you have a history of gum disease, frequent cavities, or wear braces, you may need more frequent dental cleanings. Your dentist will assess your oral health and recommend a personalized visit schedule.
Why Regular Dental Cleanings Matter
You may wonder why dental cleanings and checkups in Downtown Calgary are so important. Routine dental cleanings prevent plaque buildup, cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss. Here’s how regular visits can benefit you:
- Prevention: Dental issues like cavities and gum disease can develop without obvious symptoms. Regular cleanings catch problems early, preventing more extensive (and costly) treatments later.
- Fresh Breath: Professional cleanings remove the bacteria and food particles that cause bad breath.
- Bright Smile: Regular cleanings can reduce or prevent stains and discoloration from food, drinks, and aging.
- Healthy Gums: Gum disease is a leading cause of tooth loss but can be prevented with routine dental care.
If you’ve noticed any of the above signs, it’s time to schedule a dental checkup. Regular visits to a dentist in Downtown Calgary can help you avoid serious dental issues.
Terra Dental Care in Downtown Calgary is your destination for thorough dental cleanings and checkups to keep your smile healthy and bright.
Exceptional Dental Cleanings at Terra Dental Care in Downtown Calgary
At Terra Dental Care, we’re committed to helping you maintain optimal oral health. Whether you’re dealing with swollen gums, bad breath, or just need your bi-annual cleaning, we’re here to make your dental visit as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Don’t wait until your teeth start causing problems. Schedule your next dental cleaning with Terra Dental Care – a trusted dentist in Downtown Calgary and take the first step toward better oral health.
