How often should you get your teeth cleaned?

Daily brushing and cleaning between your teeth are the foundation of good oral health. But even with excellent habits, some plaque hardens into tartar — and tartar can only be removed professionally.

The short answer

Many people benefit from a professional clean about every six months. Some need it more often — for example, people who build up tartar quickly, have gum problems, are having orthodontic treatment, or have conditions such as diabetes. Others with very healthy gums may need it less often. Your dentist can recommend an interval based on what they see.

What happens during a cleaning

• A check of your teeth and gums
• Scaling to remove tartar above and just below the gumline
• Polishing to smooth the tooth surfaces and lift surface stains
• Advice on brushing technique and cleaning between teeth

Signs you may be due

• Gums that bleed when you brush or floss
• Visible yellow or brown deposits near the gumline
• Persistent bad breath
• Staining from tea, coffee or tobacco

Looking after your teeth between visits

Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste for about two minutes, clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental brushes, and limit how often you have sugary foods and drinks. These simple habits make every professional clean more effective.

This article is general information and isn’t a substitute for advice from a dentist who has examined you. Treatment suitability is determined after an in-person dental consultation.