Dental Cleanings: How Often Should You Clean Your Teeth

Dentistry on 88 • January 6, 2023

About 1 in 5 adults have untreated decay, while nearly 2 in 3 older adults have gum disease. To prevent tooth decay and gum disease, you need to keep your teeth clean. Regular cleaning also keeps your pearly whites strong and healthy.

In addition to forming good brushing and flossing habits, it is also vital to have your teeth professionally cleaned. Professional dental cleanings can help remove tough stains and particles on your teeth that daily brushing cannot remove.

So, how often should you have your teeth cleaned? Keep reading the guide below to find out.

How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?

It is generally recommended that you visit your dentist every six months for a professional dental cleaning. This lets your dentist get a look at your teeth and fix any dental work.

However, the specific frequency of visits may vary depending on your individual needs and oral health. If you have a higher risk for dental problems like gum disease or cavities, you may need more frequent cleanings. Visiting a dental professional every three or four months may be ideal in such a situation.

Discuss your specific dental needs with your dentist. They will help you determine the appropriate schedule for your dental cleanings.

Signs You Need Professional Dental Cleaning

Don't know when to get a dental cleaning. Here are some signs that you should visit your dentist as soon as possible.

Visible Plaque or Tartar on Your Teeth

Plaque is a clear or yellow bacteria film that forms on your teeth, while tartar is a dark-colored deposit that forms when you don't remove plaque. If you see these substances on your teeth, it may be time for a dental cleaning.

Swollen and Bleeding Gums

Healthy gums are pink and do not bleed easily. If your gums are red, swollen, or bleed when you brush or floss, it may be a sign of gum disease. A dental cleaning can help remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line, improving the health of your gums.

Bad Breath

If you consistently have bad breath that does not go away, it may be time to consider professional cleaning. Your dentist will thoroughly clean out the bacterial build-up that may be causing the bad breath.

Missed Dental Cleanings

Even if you feel your oral health is good, you need a professional dental cleaning once in a while. Schedule a consultation in case your last cleaning was more than 6 months ago.

What to Expect During Dental Cleanings

The dental cleaning procedure may vary between dentists, but these are the basic steps of professional teeth cleaning. The entire procedure usually takes less than an hour.

Step 1: Review of Medical and Dental History

Your dentist will review your medical history to ensure that the cleaning is appropriate. They will also check for any potential contraindications or precautions to take during the cleaning procedure.

Step 2: Oral Examination

The dental practitioner will examine your mouth, including your teeth, gums, and other oral tissues. This will help them assess the overall health of your mouth and identify any areas of concern.

Step 3: Preparation and Plaque Removal

If you have sensitive teeth, the dental hygienist will apply a light numbing agent to your teeth and gums before cleaning. They will then use scaling and root planning techniques to carefully remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and along the gum line.

Step 4: Teeth Polishing and Fluoride Treatment

After removing the plaque and tartar, the dental hygienist will use a powered toothbrush and gritty toothpaste to polish your teeth. This will help remove surface stains and smooth your tooth enamel.

To prevent cavities and strengthen your enamel, the dental professional may apply a fluoride treatment to your teeth. This treatment may be in the form of a gel, varnish, or paste.

Step 5: Aftercare

Your dental hygienist will provide you with instructions and cleaning tips on how to care for your teeth and gums at home.

How Should You Take Care of Your Teeth Between Dental Cleanings

After teeth cleanings, it's essential to maintain your teeth for proper oral hygiene. Here are some tips to follow in between dental cleanings:

Brush your teeth twice a day using a toothbrush with soft bristles
Floss each day to remove food particles from between your teeth
Use mouthwash to kill bacteria and freshen your breath
Avoid sugary and acidic foods or drinks
Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables
Drink plenty of water to help rinse away food particles and neutralize the acid in your mouth
Avoid tobacco products
Replace your toothbrush every three to four months
Use an antimicrobial rinse to help reduce plaque and prevent gum disease

How Much Does Dental Cleaning Cost?

Many dental insurance plans cover the cost of dental cleanings as a preventive measure. If you have dental insurance, check with your insurance company to see what's covered under your plan. Some plans may cover the entire cost of teeth cleaning or a portion of the cost.

Schedule a Dental Cleaning Appointment Today

Dental cleanings are an important tool for your oral health. The frequency of this procedure is best determined by our dentist in Bradford, Ontario. We will recommend your teeth cleaning sessions based on your family history, current oral health, and risk factors for gum disease and cavities.

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How Thumb-Sucking Affects Children's Dental Health

By Dentistry on 88 • March 14, 2025

Thumb-sucking is a natural and common behavior in infants, with about three-quarters of babies sucking their thumbs during their first year of life. This comforting habit helps them self-soothe and feel secure. However, when thumb-sucking continues beyond infancy, it can lead to dental issues that affect your child's long-term oral health. At Dentistry on 88, we understand the concerns parents may have about their child's dental development. In this blog post, we'll explore how thumb-sucking can impact your child's teeth, when it becomes problematic, and provide helpful tips on how to encourage your little one to stop. Let's get started with these dental health tips. What Is Thumb-Sucking? Thumb-sucking is a reflexive action that many babies and young children use to comfort themselves . It's a natural and instinctive behavior that begins in the womb and often continues after birth. Most infants will suck their thumbs to calm down, fall asleep, or simply as a source of comfort when they are feeling stressed or insecure. This habit is perfectly normal during the first few months of life and is a way for children to self-soothe. However, as children grow, thumb-sucking can become a repetitive habit that lasts longer than necessary. If it continues past the age of three, when permanent teeth begin to come in, it can lead to dental problems. Prolonged thumb-sucking can interfere with the proper alignment of the teeth and affect the development of the jaw. While it's normal for infants, parents should monitor their child's thumb-sucking habits as they grow to avoid future dental complications. Dental Problems From Thumb-Sucking The impact of thumb-sucking on teeth can be significant if the habit continues beyond the age of three. As noted above, while it's common for infants and toddlers to engage in this behavior, prolonged thumb-sucking can cause various dental issues as permanent teeth begin to emerge. One of the most common problems is tooth misalignment. Thumb-sucking can push the front teeth outward, leading to an overbite or open bite . It can also affect the shape and growth of the roof of the mouth, which can impact how the teeth come together. In addition to misalignment, thumb-sucking may put pressure on the jaw, which can affect its development. Over time, this can result in bite problems that may require orthodontic treatment. The longer the habit persists, the greater the likelihood of these dental issues, which is why it's important to address thumb-sucking early to avoid complications later on. When Should Thumb-Sucking Stop? Thumb-sucking should ideally stop by the time a child reaches the age of three. By this age, most children have started to develop their permanent teeth , which makes it a crucial time to address the habit. If thumb-sucking continues past this stage, it can begin to interfere with the growth and alignment of the teeth and jaw. While some children may naturally stop on their own, others may need encouragement or strategies to help break the habit. If thumb-sucking continues into the early school years, it can lead to more noticeable dental problems that may require orthodontic treatment later. Parents should watch for signs that the habit is becoming more than just a temporary comfort and consider intervening if necessary. If you're concerned about your child's thumb-sucking, it's a good idea to discuss it with your dentist . Our team can provide guidance on how to help your child stop before it affects their oral health. Tips for Breaking the Habit Breaking the habit of thumb-sucking can take time and patience, but with the right approach, it's possible. One effective method is using positive reinforcement. Encouraging your child with praise and rewards for not sucking their thumb can help motivate them to stop. Gentle reminders are also important, so if you notice your child sucking their thumb, calmly remind them to stop. You should avoid using punishment, as it may cause stress or anxiety, which could make the habit harder to break. Instead, try to redirect their attention to something else. Offering alternatives is another strategy. Thumb-sucking is often a way for children to self-soothe, so providing a soft blanket, stuffed animal, or another comforting item can help reduce the need for thumb-sucking. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine can also help. Try replacing thumb-sucking with activities like reading a book or listening to soothing music before bed. If the habit continues, it may be time to consult your dentist. As noted above, at Dentistry on 88, we can offer guidance and support to help break the habit before it affects your child's dental health. With patience and consistency, you can help your child stop thumb-sucking and maintain a healthy smile . How We Can Help at Dentistry on 88 Here at Dentistry on 88 , we understand how challenging it can be for both parents and children when it comes to breaking the thumb-sucking habit. Our team is here to support you every step of the way. If you're concerned about your child's dental health, we offer comprehensive evaluations to assess any potential effects thumb-sucking may have on their teeth and jaw development. Dr. Virani and our experienced team can provide personalized advice and strategies tailored to your child's needs. We'll help you understand the impact of prolonged thumb-sucking and offer recommendations to prevent dental issues down the road. If necessary, we can also discuss gentle interventions or referrals to specialists who can further assist with breaking the habit. Our goal is to ensure your child's smile stays healthy and beautiful for years to come. Maintain Oral Hygiene for Kids To sum up, it's important to take steps to prevent thumb-sucking before it affects your child's dental health. Early intervention can help avoid long-term issues with teeth and jaw development. Our team at Dentistry on 88 is dedicated to supporting parents in ensuring the best possible care for their child's smile. If you're concerned about thumb-sucking or have questions about your child's oral health, schedule an appointment with us . Our team is here to provide expert advice and guidance on all aspects of children's oral care.