Scale and Polish- how often?

stir_crazy

I've just had my 6 monthly check with an NHS dentist I joined last September. Before joining this dentist, I hadn't been to the dentist for around 3 years, so I had to get a couple of fillings in September and a scale and polish. The scale and polish was the first one I ever had and cost me around £50.

Back to today, I had my check up and didn't expect to have to go back for another 6 months, but got told to book a fifteen minute appointment for another scale and polish. I brush my teeth thoroughly twice a day and only drink tea or water usually.

Is it usual to have to get a scale and polish every 6 months? Or is my dentist taking advantage?

brook2jack

Some people will never need a scale and polish, others will need an intensive course every week followed by two or three monthly visits. Some people will be in between.

The only person who can tell is the dentist who examines you. The only way to avoid needing hygiene visits is to be meticulous in flossing, using tepe brushes and brushing effectively.

stir_crazy

Thank you, I had heard before that dentists don't like to do it that often as it can be damaging to your teeth and so I always assumed that it was something that was only needed if your teeth were really bad. Obviously, it wasn't a dentist who told me that!

Thanks again, I'm not the greatest with flossing but try to make sure that I brush properly.