While brushing and flossing at least twice a day can help prevent plaque buildup, it’s often not enough alone to keep your mouth as healthy as possible. Visiting a dentist in Baltimore, MD, regularly for a professional cleaning and exam can help keep your teeth and gums strong. Routine cleanings are a crucial part of your oral hygiene, and exams can help catch early warning signs of decay or damage. Since everyone’s mouth is different, your dentist can help create a hygiene schedule that works best for your smile.

When to See a Dentist in Baltimore, MD

Getting your teeth cleaned professionally can help remove stubborn plaque and tartar buildup that could damage your teeth and gums. And if you get an additional fluoride treatment, your teeth are even more likely to stay strong and healthy until your next appointment. When you first visit your dentist, they’ll do a thorough exam to assess the state of your mouth and determine what kind of hygiene schedule you should be on.

Every Six Months

Most patients will need to see their dentist at least every six months. While it’s not uncommon to need additional appointments in between visits, it’s rare that a patient can successfully maintain their oral hygiene with fewer visits a year. Most dental insurance companies cover most, if not all, of the cost of a six-month cleaning. It’s important, however, to note what kind of fee schedule your insurance uses. Some policies operate on a calendar year, meaning you can get two cleanings in a year, regardless of when. Others will consider the date of your last appointment. In the case of the latter, it’s crucial that you and your dentist schedule your hygiene appointments properly so that you have coverage.

Every Four Months

Some patients will naturally need a third cleaning in a year to help keep their teeth and gums healthy. The reason for this could be anything ranging from a genetic predisposition to a medical condition. If you need additional cleaning, check with your dentist and insurance company to see what kind of coverage you have. While an insurance company will typically not cover a third cleaning, your dentist can submit a narrative explaining the preventative nature of the appointment. In some cases, you may still be able to get coverage for your appointment.

Every Three Months

For patients who have gum disease, they’ll typically need to see their dentist every three months. These additional periodontal maintenance appointments help keep your gums strong and healthy once disease sets in. While periodontal therapy can remove the bulk of infection and get your gums to a stable condition, gum disease can quickly return and spread. Seeing a dentist every three months for a cleaning could help prevent further complications.

If you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, the sooner you start, the better. Contact us today at 410-774-5167 to schedule a new patient exam. After consulting with your dentist, we can set you up with routine cleaning appointments to help keep your oral hygiene high.