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.