Dentist’s reminder: Regular teeth cleaning matters Life in Hong Kong is fast-paced. With work and school already keeping you busy, booking a teeth cleaning can feel hard to fit in, and many people think daily brushing is enough. Dentists constantly emphasize that regular professional cleanings are vital—not to chase whiter teeth, but to use expert methods to remove tartar (calculus) and dental plaque, protecting the health of your gums and teeth. Why schedule regular cleanings? Plaque builds up over time and hardens into tartar. It sticks between teeth, along the gum line, and beneath the gums, where brushing, rinsing, and even electric toothbrushes often can’t reach. Tartar irritates the gums, causing bleeding, swelling, tenderness, and bad breath. Left unchecked, it can lead to loss of bone and gum disease (periodontitis), making teeth loosen. Regular dental scaling is your first line of defense, preventing problems before they worsen. What happens during a professional cleaning? A dentist or hygienist will start with a thorough oral exam, assessing gum health and measuring pocket depths; X‑rays may be taken if needed. They’ll then use ultrasonic scalers and professional hand instruments to remove tartar, followed by polishing to smooth tooth surfaces (scaling and polishing), so plaque is less likely to stick again. Some people notice mild sensitivity or slight gum bleeding afterward; this usually settles within a few days—simply continue gentle daily care. How often should you get your teeth cleaned? Most dentists recommend every 6 to 12 months. You may need more frequent cleanings if you smoke, frequently drink coffee or strong tea, wear braces, are pregnant, have diabetes, experience easy gum bleeding, or find oral hygiene hard to maintain. Children and older adults should also have check-ups and cleanings as needed—don’t wait until there’s pain. Myth-busting: Does cleaning damage teeth or make gaps wider? Professional scaling does not grind or damage tooth enamel. The “wider gaps” feeling many report usually happens because tartar is removed and inflamed gums tighten, revealing the true shape of your teeth. Regular cleanings also help catch cavities, tiny cracks, and bite issues early, potentially avoiding more complex treatments later. Post-cleaning care tips: - Brush gently and use floss or interdental brushes daily, focusing along the gum line. - Avoid very hard or sticky foods for two to three days to reduce irritation. - Limit sweets and dark-colored drinks; rinse your mouth right after consuming them. - Quit or cut down on smoking to support gum healing. - Follow your dentist’s recall schedule; if you have gum disease, you may need deep cleaning (scaling and root planing). Home care versus professional cleaning Brushing, flossing, and mouthwash are essential, but even the best tools can’t remove tartar hidden below the gumline. Professional dental cleaning is like routine maintenance—you don’t wait until a machine breaks to fix it. Consistency is key to keeping your teeth and gums healthy. When should you book a dentist right away? - Persistent gum bleeding or suddenly worsening bad breath - Gum recession or loose teeth - Recurrent toothache or increasing sensitivity to hot and cold - Pain or swelling of the gums when brushing Oral health affects how you eat, speak, and your confidence in social situations. Even with a busy Hong Kong schedule, make time for regular teeth cleaning and dental check-ups for yourself and your family, so you can maintain fresh breath and a healthy smile. If you’re unsure how often you should have a cleaning, talk to your dentist and set a plan based on your oral health. Start with regular cleanings—small steps now save time and hassle later and give you greater peace of mind about your long-term health.