Health Tips

How often should you have your teeth professionally cleaned?

Brushing and flossing remove most of the plaque on your teeth, but not all of it. Over time, plaque that is left behind hardens into tartar, which a toothbrush cannot remove. A professional cleaning removes it and gives the dental team a chance to spot problems early.

The short answer

For most adults, a professional cleaning once a year is recommended. Some people benefit from more frequent cleanings, including people who:

• have gum disease, or gums that bleed often
• smoke
• have diabetes
• wear braces or clear aligners
• build up tartar quickly

Your dentist will advise the right interval for you after examining your teeth and gums.

What happens during a cleaning

1. A short check. The dental team looks at your teeth and gums and asks about any pain or sensitivity.
2. Removing tartar. Hardened deposits are removed from the tooth surfaces and just under the gum line, including hard-to-reach areas.
3. Polishing. Surface stains from tea, coffee and food are polished away.
4. Advice. You get practical advice on brushing, flossing and any area that needs extra care.

A cleaning is usually comfortable. If your gums are sensitive, tell the team, and they will go gently.

Signs you should not wait for your next cleaning

• Gums that bleed when you brush
• Red, swollen or tender gums
• Bad breath that does not go away
• Teeth that feel loose or look longer
• Pain or sensitivity to hot, cold or sweet food

These can be early signs of gum disease or tooth decay. Both are easier to treat when they are found early.

Looking after your teeth between visits

• Brush twice a day for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste.
• Clean between your teeth once a day with floss or small interdental brushes.
• Cut down on sugary drinks and snacks, especially between meals.
• Spit out the toothpaste after brushing rather than rinsing, so the fluoride keeps working.
• Replace your toothbrush every three months, or sooner if the bristles are worn.

Children’s teeth

Children can see a dentist from the time their first teeth appear. Early visits help children get used to the dental chair and let the dentist check that teeth are developing well.

Dental care at Kileleshwa Medical Plaza

The plaza’s dental unit offers consultations (in person or virtual), teeth cleaning, fillings, root canal treatment, extractions, braces and Invisalign, whitening, crowns and veneers, and children’s dentistry. Book a dental consultation or message us on WhatsApp.

This article is general information and does not replace advice from your own dentist.