People know they should get their teeth cleaned regularly but often put it off. Life gets busy, and if their teeth feel fine, it’s easy to wonder if a cleaning is necessary. With recommendations ranging from once a year to every few months, it’s not always clear what the best schedule is.
How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning
Most dental professionals would say that people should get a cleaning every six months. But, this isn’t a one-size-fits all scenario. Everybody is different and lifestyle can affect frequency.
Those with gum disease or plaque buildup might have to go every three to four months or get a deep teeth cleaning. Those with excellent oral health might be okay with an annual schedule.
But here’s the catch. You can’t know the status of your oral health just by looking at the surface. That’s why new patients are often asked to get a dental exam first to catch underlying issues. Afterward, your dentist will recommend a cleaning schedule that fits your individual needs. So if you’re in Washington, call any of our offices and book your appointment with btyDENTAL today.
Visiting the Dentist Twice a Year Vs. Annually
The general consensus is that you should visit the dentist for a checkup and cleaning every six months. However, the American Dental Association says that your dentist should tailor your schedule to your needs and oral health history. For example, some may require more frequent visit than others if they have:
- Gum Disease: If you have periodontal issues, you might need a deep cleaning first, then routine visits every 3-4 months.
- Chronic Conditions: Diabetes, heart conditions, and other underlying issues increase risks of oral health complications that might require more frequent visits.
- Lifestyle Habits: Smokers and people with high sugar diets are at a higher risk for dental problems and more susceptible to stains or cavities.
But, even if your oral health is in a relatively good state, you should still go every six months if you could. This helps you spot dental problems early before they become expensive issues.
What Happens During a Dental Cleaning
After booking a cleaning, it’s only natural to ask what actually happens during the appointment. A standard dental cleaning follows is designed to get rid of plaque, prevent cavities, and keep gums healthy. Here’s what to expect:
Initial Dental Exam (For New Patients)
The dental hygienist begins by examining the patient’s mouth, checking for signs of cavities, gum disease, or any other oral health issues. But a physical oral exam can only see the surface.
So, before starting a cleaning, new patients are often asked to get a dental x-ray to see potential underlying issues before starting the cleaning.
Plaque and Tartar Removal
If there aren’t any potential oral issues that can prevent a cleaning, a dentist or hygienist will remove plaque and tartar using a scaler. Patients who follow oral health best practices like flossing are gonna be done faster. Those with more buildup can experience mild discomfort.
Teeth Polishing
Once tartar is removed, your dental provider will use a high-powered electric brush and gritty toothpaste to polish the teeth. This will eliminate any left over plaque and surface stains, leaving your teeth feeling smooth and clean.
Rinse and Optional Fluoride
The patient is given a rinse to clear out any residue from the cleaning. If recommended, a fluoride treatment is applied to help strengthen the teeth and prevent cavities.
Final Check-up by the Dentist
In many cases, the dentist will conduct a final examination, ensuring that everything looks healthy and addressing any concerns. If no issues are found, the patient is good to go until their next appointment. But if issues are found, the dentist might recommend that you should get your teeth cleaned more than twice a year.
When to Get a Regular Cleaning Vs. Deep Teeth Cleaning
How often you should get your teeth cleaned depends on your current oral health and dental history. If you visit the dentist regularly and have healthy gums, a regular cleaning is all you need. But if you’re experiencing gum issues like bleeding or recession, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning to prevent further damage.
If you’re unsure, scheduling a dental check-up can help determine which type of cleaning is best for your oral health. Here’s when you need a deep cleaning vs regular prophy.
Deep cleaning is necessary for individuals with moderate to severe gum disease (periodontitis). It helps remove bacteria below the gumline to prevent infection and further damage.
A regular dental cleaning is recommended for individuals with healthy gums and minimal plaque buildup. It focuses on maintaining overall oral health and preventing dental issues.
| Feature | Regular Cleaning 🦷 | Deep Cleaning 🦷🔬 |
| Purpose | Preventative care | Treats gum disease |
| Plaque Removal | Above the gumline | Above & below the gumline |
| Gum Health | For healthy gums | For gum inflammation & infection |
| Pain/Discomfort | Minimal | May require numbing |
| Frequency | Every 6 months | Every 3-4 months (if needed) |
How Much Does a Teeth Cleaning Cost
The cost of dental cleanings in the United States varies based on factors such as location, the type of cleaning required, and whether you have dental insurance. Here’s a breakdown:
Routine Dental Cleaning (Prophylaxis): Without Insurance: The cost ranges from $75 to $200 per session, with an average around $125. With Insurance: Many dental insurance plans cover routine cleanings 100%, especially if they are considered preventive care.
Deep Cleaning (Scaling and Root Planing): Without Insurance: The cost typically ranges from $150 to $350 per quadrant, totaling $600 to $1,400 for the entire month. With Insurance: Insurance coverage varies; some plans may cover a portion of the costs, but patients often have out-of-pocket expenses.
If you’re in Washington and want a more detailed breakdown, check out our dental cleaning cost guide here.
Key Takeaways
How often you should get your teeth cleaned depends on your oral health needs. While the general recommendation is every six months, some people may need more frequent cleanings, while others can go a year between visits.
Your dentist’s assessment is key—they’ll evaluate factors like plaque buildup, gum health, and your overall hygiene habits to determine the best schedule for you. So, if you’re looking to get a teeth cleaning routine tailored to you, book an appointment with btyDENTAL today!
