Why Regular Teeth Cleanings Are Important

why regular teeth cleanings are more important than you think - New Era Dental - Ann Arbor, Monroe, and Fort Gratiot, MI

Most people know they should visit the dentist every six months for a cleaning, but many don’t realize just how essential those cleanings are to their overall health. Regular teeth cleanings aren’t just about polishing your smile. They play a critical role in preventing serious dental problems, catching issues early, and even supporting your general well-being.

Here’s what actually happens during a cleaning, why plaque and tartar are so harmful, and why even great brushing at home doesn’t replace the need for professional care.

What Happens During a Dental Cleaning

A professional dental cleaning, also known as a prophylaxis, typically includes several key steps.

First, your hygienist will examine your mouth to check for any signs of inflammation, gum recession, or other concerns. Then, using specialized tools, they’ll carefully remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, especially around the gumline and in hard-to-reach areas.

After scaling, your hygienist polishes your teeth with a gritty toothpaste to remove surface stains and smooth the enamel. A professional flossing follows, which helps dislodge debris from between your teeth. Some cleanings include a fluoride treatment to strengthen enamel and help prevent decay.

It’s a thorough process designed to keep your teeth and gums healthy, and it goes far beyond what you can do at home.

Understanding Plaque and Tartar

Plaque is a sticky, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms on your teeth. When you eat, especially sugary or starchy foods, the bacteria in plaque produce acids that attack your tooth enamel. If plaque isn’t removed through daily brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, also called calculus.

Tartar is tough. Once it forms, it can’t be removed by brushing or flossing alone—it has to be scraped off with dental instruments. Tartar buildup near the gums is a major cause of gingivitis, the earliest stage of gum disease. Left untreated, it can lead to more serious conditions like periodontitis, which damages the bone that supports your teeth.

Why Brushing and Flossing Aren’t Enough

Brushing twice a day and flossing once a day are absolutely essential—but they’re not foolproof. Even the most diligent brushers miss spots, especially near the back molars or along the gumline. Tartar begins forming in as little as 24 to 72 hours, which means areas you miss can quickly become problematic.

Professional dental cleanings remove that stubborn tartar, help prevent gum disease, and give your dentist a chance to catch small problems before they become big (and expensive) ones. In fact, regular cleanings are one of the most cost-effective ways to avoid fillings, root canals, and even tooth loss.

The Bigger Picture: Cleanings and Your Health

Oral health is closely linked to overall health. Infections in the mouth can contribute to systemic inflammation and have been connected to heart disease, diabetes, and even complications during pregnancy. Maintaining a clean, healthy mouth helps reduce your risk of more serious health problems down the line.

If it’s been more than six months since your last cleaning, now’s the time to schedule one. You’ll leave with a brighter smile—and peace of mind knowing you’re taking care of your health from the inside out.

Dental Teeth Cleaning FAQs

Q. How often should I get my teeth cleaned?

A. Most people benefit from a professional cleaning every six months. If you have gum disease or are prone to plaque buildup, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits.

Q. Can’t I just use an electric toothbrush to avoid going to the dentist?

A. Electric toothbrushes can help improve your brushing technique, but they can’t remove hardened tartar. Only a dental professional can do that safely.

Q. Do cleanings hurt?

A. Dental cleanings are generally painless. Some patients may feel mild sensitivity during scaling, especially if there’s significant tartar buildup or gum inflammation. Your hygienist can adjust the treatment to keep you comfortable.

Q. Is fluoride treatment necessary after a cleaning?

A. Fluoride treatments help strengthen enamel and protect against decay, especially in patients with a higher risk of cavities. Your dentist can help you decide if it’s right for you.

Ready for your next cleaning? Contact New Era Dental to schedule an appointment and keep your smile on track.

Regular Teeth Cleanings Are More Important Than You Think