When it comes to keeping a healthy smile, daily brushing and flossing are important—but they are not enough on their own. Even with the best at-home care, plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth over time. That’s why regular dental cleanings with your dentist are essential. Dental cleanings help protect your teeth and gums, prevent serious oral health issues, and keep your smile bright.
In this article, we’ll explain what happens during a dental cleaning, why it’s so important, and how often you should visit your dentist.
What Is a Dental Cleaning?
A dental cleaning is a professional procedure performed by a dentist or dental hygienist. It involves removing plaque, tartar, and stains from your teeth. Unlike regular brushing at home, dental tools can reach areas you might miss—especially between teeth and along the gumline.
A typical dental cleaning includes:
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Examination – Your dentist will check your mouth for signs of cavities, gum disease, or other concerns.
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Scaling – Special tools are used to remove tartar buildup that brushing and flossing cannot remove.
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Polishing – Your teeth are polished to remove surface stains and leave them smooth.
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Fluoride treatment (optional) – Fluoride may be applied to help strengthen tooth enamel and prevent decay.
This process is quick, painless, and leaves your mouth feeling fresh.
Why Dental Cleanings Are Important
Many people wonder, “If I brush and floss daily, do I really need to see the dentist for a cleaning?” The answer is yes. Here’s why:
1. Prevents Gum Disease
Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. If it isn’t removed, it hardens into tartar. Tartar buildup can irritate your gums, leading to gingivitis (early gum disease). Left untreated, gum disease can cause tooth loss. Regular cleanings help stop this before it becomes serious.
2. Reduces the Risk of Cavities
Cavities start small, but they can grow quickly. During your cleaning, your dentist checks for early signs of decay. Catching cavities early means easier and less costly treatment.
3. Protects Overall Health
Your oral health is connected to your overall health. Studies show that gum disease is linked to heart disease, diabetes, and other conditions. Keeping your teeth and gums healthy with regular cleanings can benefit your whole body.
4. Keeps Your Breath Fresh
Bad breath (halitosis) often comes from bacteria buildup in the mouth. Professional cleanings remove the plaque and tartar that cause unpleasant odors.
5. Brighter, Cleaner Smile
Dental cleanings help remove stains from coffee, tea, or smoking. After a cleaning, your smile looks brighter and feels smoother.
How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?
For most people, visiting the dentist every six months is recommended. However, your dentist may suggest more frequent visits if you:
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Have gum disease
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Are prone to cavities
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Smoke
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Have diabetes or other health conditions affecting oral health
Regular checkups help your dentist track changes in your mouth and give you personalized advice.
What Happens If You Skip Dental Cleanings?
Skipping dental cleanings may not cause problems right away, but over time it can lead to:
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Tartar buildup that cannot be removed at home
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Gum disease that may cause bleeding, swelling, and eventually tooth loss
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Cavities that require fillings, crowns, or even root canals
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Stains that make your teeth look yellow or dull
In short, avoiding the dentist often leads to more costly and painful dental treatments later.
Tips to Keep Your Teeth Healthy Between Visits
While regular dental cleanings are essential, you can also take care of your teeth at home with these simple tips:
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Brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
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Floss daily to remove food particles between teeth.
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Limit sugary snacks and drinks, which feed harmful bacteria.
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Drink water to wash away acids and food particles.
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Avoid smoking, as it stains teeth and increases the risk of gum disease.
These habits, combined with professional care, are the best way to maintain a healthy smile.
Final Thoughts
Dental cleanings are one of the easiest and most effective ways to keep your mouth healthy. By visiting your dentist regularly, you can prevent gum disease, cavities, and other serious problems. Plus, you’ll enjoy a cleaner, brighter smile.
If it’s been more than six months since your last cleaning, now is the perfect time to schedule an appointment with your dentist. Your teeth—and your overall health—will thank you.
Dentistry at The Grove
Address: 2142 Mountain Grove Ave, Burlington, ON L7P 2J3
Tel: (289) 427-8200
