“Professional teeth cleaning is done to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Dentists and dental hygienists clean teeth at the dentist’s office.”

The American Dental Association recommends visiting a dentist “regularly” for a cleaning. For some people, the best frequency will be every 6 months or so. If you are at a higher risk for gum disease, you may need to visit a dentist more frequently.

How often should you have your teeth cleaned?

Some dentists recommend that you visit once every 6 months for a cleaning. This allows your dentist to get a look at your teeth and let you know if there’s anything that needs to be addressed, such as a cavity or gingivitis.

“There isn’t much research comparing people who go to the dentist twice a year with people who don’t.”

In recent years, the 6-month standard has been deemed arbitrary by some experts. One 2013 study suggested that people who visit twice per year don’t necessarily improve their dental outcomes in a statistically significant way.

That same study found that dental care visit frequency should be determined in conversation with your dental professional, based on your specific risk factors for gum disease (periodontitis) and tooth loss.

If you do, you may be at a higher risk for gum disease.

Research has established a relationship between income inequality and oral health. People who don’t have dental insurance or the ability to pay for regular dental visits tend to experience more cavities, more frequent dental injuries, and increased rates of gum disease.

It is a complicated subject and may be due to the fact that there are more barriers to healthcare, but it does imply that going to the dentist regularly affects your dental health as well as your health overall.

There is no research to address the question of how much is too much when it comes to teeth cleaning. It is possible that having the procedure done too often could cause damage to your tooth.

“You will most likely have to pay out of pocket for the teeth cleaning because it can get expensive. The most comprehensive dental insurance won’t cover more than two teeth cleaning appointments a year.”

If you would benefit from professional teeth cleaning more than twice a year, your dentist should be able to advise you.

The basic steps of a teeth cleaning visit are what the procedure may vary between practitioners. The process takes less than an hour. If you have sensitive teeth, a light numbing agent can be applied to your teeth before you start.

Cleaning

Tartar and plaque are removed from your teeth during this step. Your dentist or dental hygienist will clean the most difficult areas of your mouth using special tools. They will also clean the spaces between your teeth with special tools.

The Prophy-Jet is a tool that uses pressurized air, water, and abrasive powders to remove plaque. They will rinse your mouth out at the end.

Polishing

Your teeth are cleaned. Your dental professional uses a rotating head to clean your teeth.

Fluoride treatment

A dentist or dental hygienist can apply a treatment to your teeth to prevent decay. The treatment may be a paste, a gel, or a varnish.

They may recommend products for keeping your teeth healthy at home after the cleaning.

Professional teeth whitening is different than teeth cleaning. Getting your teeth cleaned can leave them looking whiter, but it’s not the same as going to the dentist specifically for whitening.

Getting your teeth whitened at the dentist is usually done with a hydrogen peroxide rinse. This rinse is meant to break apart stains. There are other ways to get a brighter appearance from your dentist.

There is no standard guideline for how often you should have your teeth whitened. It is not considered a necessary part of oral health. Insurance does not typically cover teeth Whitening.

You should see your dentist at least once a year. Your teeth cleaning will be included in this visit. It is not advised to skip the exam.

“Good dental hygiene can help protect your teeth from decay and gum disease. You don’t have to see the dentist as often if you need fewer visits to address dental issues.”

Some of the most frequently asked questions are about getting your teeth cleaned.

How much does teeth cleaning cost?

The cost of living and the prices for dental services vary according to your dentist. A standard cleaning can cost between $75 and $200 without insurance.

One or two annual cleanings may be included with your dental insurance. You may have a copay of between $25 and $50 for one preventive care visit.

“If you are worried about how much a cleaning will cost, you should call the dentist. If you can’t pay the whole cost up-front, you can ask about payment plans.”

How should I take care of my teeth between teeth cleanings?

The best way to keep your teeth healthy between cleanings is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth for 2 minutes, twice per day, as well as flossing once per day. Get familiar with techniques to brush and floss effectively, as well.

Getting your teeth cleaned is important for your oral health. The dentist can determine the number of procedures you will have.

You should ask your dentist how often you should get your teeth cleaned based on your oral health, family history and risk factors for gum disease.