Routine examination of the teeth is recommended at least one to two times every year. This may include yearly, select dental X-rays. Good oral hygiene helps to prevent cavities, tartar build-up, and gum disease.

If you have good oral hygiene habits and a healthy mouth, we suggest professional teeth cleaning at least twice a year. Many dental insurance policies will cover two cleanings per year, but few people take full advantage of their benefits.

A regular cleaning focuses on the surfaces of the teeth and between teeth above the gum line. During a regular cleaning, the teeth are also polished. A dental deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is needed in order to remove bacteria, calculus (tartar), and debris that has collected under the gum line in deeper gum pockets.

Dentist Tip: Brushing three times a day is ideal. If you can brush once after every meal–breakfast, lunch, and dinner–you minimize the growth of bacteria in your mouth. But wait an hour after each meal: brushing too soon can cause damage to the enamel of your teeth.