Cosmetic Dentistry Guide

You have undoubtedly heard how vital it is to get a professional teeth cleaning to diminish the risk of cavities and gum disease, but how often do you really need to have a cleaning with a dental hygienist? If you have good oral hygiene habits and a healthy mouth, your dentist and dental hygienist will probably suggest professional teeth cleaning at least twice a year.  Many dental insurance policies will cover two cleanings per year, but few people take full advantage of their benefits. The twice-a-year recommendation isn't random; there are good reasons behind it. How often should I see a dental hygienist to have my teeth cleaned? This is a very good question and one, with variations, that has been asked hundreds of times. The answer to that question varies according to you – your level of oral hygiene, your genetic predisposition to decay or gum disease and any other habits you may have.  As a general rule, the intervals that are shown by studies to be optimal are:

Contrary to what you have been told, bleeding gums are not normal and shouldn't be ignored. Would you be concerned if your hands bleed every time you wash them?  Your gums are no different. Bleeding that occurs when you floss, brush, or eat is usually caused by a bacterial infection and characterizes one of the first symptoms of gum disease. Several links have been found between periodontal infection and other diseases of the human body .  Heart Disease, Diabetes, Respiratory Disease, Osteoporosis, Artificial Joints, and Pregnancy complications seem to be connected to your oral health. The current theory is that bacteria present in infected gums breaks loose, travels through your bloodstream, and attaches itself to your heart or other body parts.  A recent study found that 85% of heart-attack patients have periodontal disease, making this connection higher than the relationship between high cholesterol and heart attacks. What Should You Do? Keep your mouth healthy! I