Dentist Explains Why You Should Get Regular Dental Cleanings

　　Dentist explains: why you should get regular teeth cleaning

　　Many people brush every day but feel that professional teeth cleaning “might not be necessary.” In reality, regular dental cleanings aren’t just about a nicer smile—they’re essential for keeping your teeth and gums healthy. If you often drink tea, coffee, milk tea, enjoy curry, or smoke and drink alcohol, plaque and tartar can build up quickly. With a busy lifestyle, it’s hard to remove all of this buildup with brushing alone.

　　What is a dental cleaning (scaling and polishing)?

　　A professional cleaning uses ultrasonic vibration and specialized instruments to remove tartar (hardened plaque) around the gumline and between teeth. This is followed by polishing to smooth the tooth surfaces so stains are less likely to stick. Tartar acts like a “fortress” for bacteria. When it accumulates along the gums, it triggers inflammation and, over time, can progress to periodontal (gum) disease, leading to gum recession and loose teeth.

　　Why get regular dental cleanings?

　　- Prevent gum disease: Red, swollen gums, bleeding when brushing, and worsening bad breath are warning signs of gingivitis. Cleaning removes tartar at the gumline, reduces inflammation, and protects the supporting tissues around your teeth.

　　- Reduce bad breath: Plaque and tartar harbor bacteria that release odor. After cleaning, bacterial load drops and breath typically improves.

　　- Lower your risk of cavities: Plaque acids erode tooth enamel—especially along the gumline and between teeth. Regular cleanings plus proper brushing are more effective at preventing tooth decay.

　　- Improve surface stains: Tea, coffee, and tobacco stains stick to rough surfaces. Scaling and polishing can fade surface discoloration for a fresher smile. Note: cleaning is not the same as a whitening treatment.

　　Common myths—cleared up

　　- “Cleaning makes teeth loose.” It doesn’t. Tooth mobility is usually caused by periodontal disease. Cleaning removes tartar, which can reveal pre-existing problems—it doesn’t cause them.

　　- “Cleaning wears down enamel.” Professional scaling uses ultrasonic vibration with water to dislodge tartar. It does not grind away enamel. Feeling slight vibration or cold is normal.

　　- “My gaps look bigger after cleaning.” Tartar was previously filling the

　　spaces between teeth. Once it’s removed, those areas feel more “open,” which actually makes flossing easier and benefits gum health long term.

　　How often should you get your teeth cleaned?

　　Most people should have a professional cleaning and oral exam every six months. If you have a higher risk for gum disease, consider every three to four months. More frequent cleanings are recommended for:

　　- Smokers or people who regularly drink strong tea or coffee

　　- Pregnant women and people with diabetes (gums inflame more easily)

　　- Those with braces, fixed bridges, or dental implants (harder to clean)

　　- Anyone with frequent gum bleeding or inconsistent oral hygiene

　　When should you see a dentist sooner?

　　- Bleeding often during brushing or flossing; swollen, tender gums

　　- Persistent bad breath that feels “not fresh”

　　- Gum recession, yellowish buildup at the gumline, or sensitivity

　　- Teeth feel loose; discomfort when chewing

　　- Mouth ulcers or white patches that don’t heal

　　What happens during a cleaning?

　　The dentist or hygienist uses an ultrasonic scaler to trace around each tooth and gumline, removing tartar. Fine instruments are used to clean between teeth. Polishing follows to smooth the surfaces. You may feel mild soreness or sensitivity—especially where tartar was heavy or gums were inflamed—but this is temporary. For the next day or two, avoid very spicy, very cold, or very hot foods. Use a desensitizing toothpaste or a medicated mouthwash if your dentist recommends it.

　　Daily care tips

　　- Brush twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, including along the gumline

　　- Clean between teeth daily with floss or interdental brushes, focusing on the gumline and the neck of the tooth

　　- Rinse with water after milk tea or coffee to reduce staining

　　- Get routine check-ups so your dentist can monitor gum health, tartar buildup, and any changes in the oral lining

　　Bottom line: Don’t wait for problems before you book a cleaning. Regular dental cleanings help prevent gum disease, improve bad breath, and reduce your risk of cavities. They also catch issues early so you can avoid bigger, costlier treatments. Don’t let myths stop you from caring for your teeth—talk to your dentist, set up a personalized cleaning and check-up schedule, and enjoy a confident smile every day.