Everybody’s mouth has plaque, a bacterial substance that sticks to the teeth. As plaque builds up, it can damage the gums, creating pockets that are susceptible to infection. In a worst case scenario, the gums can begin to recede from the teeth.

If left on the teeth, plaque eventually hardens into tartar or calculus, which can’t be dislodged by conventional brushing or flossing. Even patients who are fastidious about their oral hygiene habits must visit their dentists on a regular basis for professional cleanings to remove tartar. In a professional teeth cleaning, also known as prophylaxis, a dental hygienist uses special instruments to clear away the tartar.

Because prophylaxis is so thorough, it’s important to schedule one on a regular basis. Most patients should schedule a cleaning every six months. However, if your body naturally produces more plaque or if you have significant gum disease, you may need to have more frequent cleanings, perhaps as often as every three months.

Although a professional cleaning is periodically necessary, your home oral hygiene routine is essential to good health as well. More plaque will collect on your teeth if you don’t keep up with your daily brushing and flossing.

Sticking to a six-month schedule and maintaining good oral hygiene habits at home should help your regular professional cleanings to go smoothly and quickly. If you are overdue for a teeth cleaning in Fort Worth, contact your local dentist’s office today to schedule an appointment. Scheduling regular cleanings also gives your dentist an opportunity to identify minor problems, such as cavities and gingivitis, before they become major issues.