How Often Should You Schedule Dental Cleanings?
Regular cleanings keep your teeth and gums healthy. Learn how often you should see the dentist and why consistency matters.
General Recommendations
Most people benefit from a professional dental checkup and cleaning twice a year. These visits remove hardened tartar and allow us to catch small issues before they become big problems. Keeping up with regular care helps prevent cavities, gum disease and bad breath.
Individual Risk Factors
If your oral health is very stable and you have a low risk of cavities or gum disease, we may recommend slightly longer intervals—every 18 to 24 months. On the other hand, people with a history of gum disease, frequent cavities, diabetes, smoking or orthodontic appliances may need cleanings three or four times a year to keep their mouth healthy.
What Happens During a Cleaning?
During a cleaning, our hygienists use special instruments to gently remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and below the gumline. We polish your teeth to remove surface stains and apply fluoride if needed. A dental exam follows to check for decay, oral cancer and other concerns. Regular professional cleanings complement your daily brushing and flossing routine.
The Bottom Line
The right cleaning schedule depends on your individual needs. By maintaining regular visits and following good home care, you'll enjoy a healthier, brighter smile for years to come. If it's been a while since your last appointment, contact us to get back on track.
Evidence‑Based Recommendations
According to the American Dental Association, most people benefit from professional cleanings twice per year, but the exact interval should be determined by your dentist based on your oral health risk. Regular cleanings help remove hardened plaque and tartar and allow your dental team to catch problems early.
The Cleveland Clinic notes that a routine cleaning (prophylaxis) removes bacteria and reduces your risk of cavities and gum disease. For people with more advanced gum disease, deep cleaning procedures like scaling and root planing may be necessary.
Unique Insights
In our practice, we see that patients who maintain regular cleanings often enjoy healthier gums and fresher breath. Between appointments, brush and floss carefully and limit sugary snacks to minimise plaque build‑up. If you're overdue for a cleaning or notice bleeding gums, schedule an appointment promptly.
Written by Dr. Nicole Houshmand, DDS – Associate Dentist specialising in family & preventive dentistry.