Getting regular dental cleanings is key to keeping your teeth and gums healthy. However, your oral health needs can fluctuate over time. How often should you get a cleaning during each stage of your life? Today, we’ll answer that question by breaking down our cleaning frequency recommendations by age and oral health status.
Children (Under 18)
Kids should have their first dental check-up when their first tooth comes in, but they won’t need a cleaning until their full set of primary teeth appears. This usually happens between 12 and 36 months. After that first cleaning, they should return for another every 6 months.
When your child is old enough to brush and floss their teeth on their own, they may need to visit more often. Many kids struggle with their oral hygiene at first, so they may experience more plaque and tartar build-up than usual. They’ll master these skills over time with daily practice. Until then, extra cleanings will make sure that their teeth and gums don’t suffer any long-term negative effects.
Because braces and retainers make it more difficult to brush and floss properly, children who are undergoing orthodontic treatment may also need more frequent cleanings. Ask their dentist or orthodontist how often they recommend getting a cleaning based on the tartar build-up they’ve observed.
Adults (18+)
By the time most people turn 18, they’ll have a thorough and consistent oral hygiene routine in place. While visiting every 6 months is still recommended, some people with exceptional habits can get away with yearly cleanings in adulthood. Others will need to visit every 3 to 4 months to keep their tartar build-up in check. Ask your dentist for guidance to figure out what’s best for you.
Seniors (65 and Older)
Older adults have unique oral health challenges that make it hard for them to get away with the same reduced cleaning frequency that younger people sometimes can.
Many older folks lose some of their strength and physical dexterity in their later years, losing the ability to brush and floss as thoroughly as they once did. Some also suffer from dry mouth due to aging or certain medications. Gum disease is also more common among seniors, especially serious forms of the condition.
With all of these risk factors working against you, it’s a good idea to stick to a 6-month cleaning schedule during this phase of your life. If your dentist recommends more frequent visits, do your best to follow their suggestions. If you keep up good oral health habits, you can keep your teeth and gums in good shape for the rest of your life.
Visit Us for Stress-Free Dental Cleanings at Any Age
Has it been too long since your last cleaning appointment? It’s time to change that. Contact Coscarella Family Dentistry to book a dental cleaning and check-up and get your oral health back on track.