Most people recognize the importance of regular dental cleanings. At the same time, many patients struggle with exactly how often they should have their teeth professionally cleaned.
The general recommendation is to see your dentist twice a year for routine cleanings and oral exams. But is twice a year always the rule? Can it change if your teeth are exceptionally healthy and you’re extra diligent with brushing and flossing?
The truth is that while the six-month standard works for many, the right frequency depends on your individual needs. At Shiflett Family Dental in Columbus, OH, we believe that understanding your oral health and potential risk factors is the best way to determine how often you should schedule a cleaning.
Why Dental Cleanings Matter
Professional teeth cleanings are about much more than polishing your teeth. During a cleaning, your dentist uses special tools and techniques to remove hardened plaque, or “tartar,” which cannot be done at home with brushing and flossing alone. In addition, professional cleanings help:
- Reduce your risk of cavities and gum disease.
- Prevent bad breath caused by bacteria buildup.
- Spot early signs of oral health problems, including tooth decay or gum inflammation.
- Maintain a bright, fresh, healthy smile.
Skipping cleanings doesn’t just put your smile at risk. It can also contribute to more serious issues like periodontal disease, which research has linked to heart disease, diabetes, and other health concerns.
The General Guideline: Every Six Months
The American Dental Association generally recommends a professional cleaning every six months for most patients. This standard ensures tartar and plaque buildup are controlled before they can cause gum disease or cavities. It also allows your dentist to check for early warning signs of issues that could become painful or expensive if left untreated.
However, this “twice a year” guideline isn’t a one-size-fits-all recommendation. Depending on your health history and lifestyle/at-home care habits, you may need more or less frequent care.
When You Might Need More Frequent Cleanings
Some people are at higher risk for dental problems, which means sticking to six months may not be enough. You may need to schedule cleanings every 3–4 months if you have:
- A history of gum disease, or “periodontitis”
- Excessive plaque buildup despite good home care
- Diabetes or another condition affecting your immune system
- A history of smoking or smokeless tobacco use
- Orthodontic appliances (like braces) that make at-home cleaning more difficult
For these patients, more frequent visits are recommended as a preventive measure to help maintain stable oral health and avoid future complications.
Can You Wait Longer Between Cleanings?
On the other hand, some patients with excellent oral hygiene and low risk factors may be able to wait a bit longer between visits. This is especially true for those who:
- Consistently brush at least twice daily and floss regularly
- Have a history of healthy teeth and gums
- Don’t smoke or use tobacco products
- Eat a balanced diet high in calcium and fiber and low in highly processed foods and sugars
Even with excellent oral health, it’s not advisable to make a long-term habit of skipping dental visits. Teeth cleanings aren’t just about polishing teeth but also allowing your dentist to catch and treat problems like cavities or gum inflammation in their earliest stages. Remember: left unchecked, even the healthiest mouths can develop issues.
Dental Cleanings and Overall Health
It’s easy to think of dental cleanings as only benefiting your mouth. In reality, however, as studies have shown, good oral health is strongly linked with strong overall health. Gum disease, in particular, has been associated with:
- Increased risk of heart disease and stroke
- Poor blood sugar control in people with diabetes
- Complications during pregnancy, including premature birth
In short, by maintaining a consistent schedule of dental cleanings, you aren’t just protecting your teeth, you’re also lowering risks that can affect the well-being of your entire body.
How to Make the Most of Your Cleaning Visits
Frequency matters, but so does quality. To get the best results from your dental cleanings:
- Keep up with daily brushing and flossing so your visits focus on prevention, rather than corrective care and “catching up.”
- Share your full health history with your dentist so they understand all your risk factors and can tailor their recommendations.
- Ask questions! A routine cleaning is a perfect opportunity to chat with your dental team about habits that can facilitate better at-home care.
- Schedule your next cleaning before you leave the office so that you stay on track (and don’t forget!).
Finding the Right Schedule for You
The bottom line: while twice a year is a safe standard for many people, your ideal dental cleaning schedule is unique. At Shiflett Family Dental, Dr. Justin Shiflett takes the time to assess your risk factors, lifestyle, and oral health history before making a recommendation. Whether you need a routine check every six months or more frequent visits, our goal is to keep your smile healthy and comfortable for the long term.
Keep Your Smile Healthy with Regular Dental Cleanings in Clintonville
At Shiflett Family Dental in Columbus, OH, we provide personalized care that goes beyond a quick polish. Dr. Justin Shiflett and our team are here to help you find the right cleaning schedule for your unique needs. Regular preventive visits not only protect your teeth and gums but also support your overall health and confidence. Schedule your next dental cleaning today and take the next step toward a lifetime of healthy smiles.