How often should you really get a dental cleaning?

Ask ten people how often to get a professional cleaning and nine will say every six months. It's a good default, and for most healthy mouths it's exactly right. But it's a starting point, not a prescription.

Why six months works for most people

Plaque hardens into tartar within days, and once it does, no toothbrush removes it. Six months is roughly how long it takes for tartar to build up enough to start irritating the gums in a person with good daily habits. Cleaning on that schedule keeps your gums ahead of the curve.

When we recommend coming more often

Gum disease changes the math. If you've had periodontal treatment, bleed easily when brushing, smoke, or have diabetes, we'll usually suggest a three or four month interval. Pregnancy hormones can also inflame gums, so expectant mothers benefit from an extra visit.

The best schedule is the one built on your mouth, not an average. At your next visit, ask us what interval we'd recommend for you specifically, and why.