Keeping your smile healthy is about more than remembering to brush before bed. Even with a great at-home care routine, plaque and tartar can quietly build up where your toothbrush and floss simply can’t reach. That’s where a professional dental cleaning makes all the difference. But how often should you get a dental cleaning, really—and does everyone need the same schedule? 

At Brentwood Village Dental Clinic in NW Calgary, our experienced dentists and hygienists tailor recommendations based on you—your age, your oral habits, and your overall health. Here’s how to know what “regular” should look like for your smile.

How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning? 

For most adults and children with healthy gums and a low risk of dental problems, dentists typically recommend: 

A professional dental cleaning every six months. This schedule is backed by years of clinical experience and helps: 

  • Control plaque and tartar buildup
  • Catch small issues before they become big problems
  • Keep your gums healthy and your breath fresher
  • Support your overall health, since gum disease is linked to conditions like diabetes and heart disease

However, twice a year is just the starting point. Your ideal cleaning schedule depends on what’s happening in your mouth, and your medical history. 

When You May Need More Frequent Cleanings

Some people benefit from professional dental cleanings every three to four months. This could be the case if:

  • You have a history of gum disease: If you’ve been treated for gingivitis or periodontitis, bacteria can return more quickly. More frequent cleanings can help keep inflammation under control and protect the bone around your teeth.
  • You smoke or use tobacco: Tobacco increases tartar, stains, gum disease, and oral cancer risk. Extra cleanings help manage these concerns. 
  • You have diabetes or other health conditions: Diabetes and some systemic conditions change how your body responds to bacteria, so your mouth may need closer monitoring.
  • You have braces, bridges, or dental implants: These can create hard-to-clean areas where plaque collects. Regular professional cleanings help keep them healthy. 
  • You get cavities easily: If you seem to have a new cavity at every checkup, a more proactive schedule, along with fluoride and personalized home-care advice, can make a big difference. 
  • You’re an older adult: While children and teens often do well with visits every six months, older adults may need more frequent care due to dry mouth, medications, or health changes. 

Other factors that can affect your cleaning schedule include poor oral hygiene habits, crowded teeth, or a diet that’s rich in sugary and acidic foods.

The Bottom Line

So, how often should you get a dental cleaning? For many people, every six months is a great starting point. For higher-risk patients, every three to four months helps to protect teeth and gums. 

Ultimately, the best schedule is one designed for you by your dental team. At Brentwood Village Dental Clinic, our team works with you to create a personalized cleaning plan that supports your long-term oral health and confidence in your smile. 

Ready for a cleaner, healthier smile? 

Contact us to book an appointment with Brentwood Village Dental Clinic and schedule your professional dental cleaning today.

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