The rule of thumb for good dental health is to attend a checkup and cleaning appointment at least twice ever year. Like brushing and flossing your teeth, the routine is a cornerstone of good hygiene, but only works if you remain consistent in your schedule. By skipping a single appointment, you can give oral bacteria the time they need to undo all of the work you’ve put into caring for your smile. Today, we explain why dental cleanings must be consistent, and how the threat to your oral health is one you shouldn’t take lightly.

Oral Bacteria Are a Constant Threat

At any given moment, your mouth hosts over 600 different kinds of oral bacteria, some of which are the building blocks of issues like tooth decay and gum disease. When bacteria accumulate on your teeth and gums, they form a sticky film of plaque to protect them from being washed away by saliva. Because bacteria’s presence is constant, plaque continuously forms on your teeth throughout the day, and it can quickly calcify into tartar, which requires professional cleaning to remove.

Your Toothbrush and Floss Are Limited

Oral bacteria are much less of a threat if you can prevent them from combining to form plaque. By brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing at least once, you can largely prevent plaque buildup, but the plaque that does form won’t take long to calcify. When it does, your toothbrush and floss can no longer remove it. The reason professional dental cleanings need to be consistent is to remove tartar before the bacteria inside of it can grow strong enough to damage your gums and tooth structure.

Schedule Your Next Routine Dental Cleaning

Dental cleanings help you prevent common and destructive dental issues, but only if you attend your appointments consistently. To learn more, schedule a consultation with Dr. Burds by calling Gateway Dental Group in Des Moines, IA, today at (515) 244-9565.