There’s more to a healthy smile than just brushing and flossing. Even with the best at-home care, plaque and tartar can still build up in hard-to-reach places. That’s why regular professional teeth cleanings are essential—not just for sparkling teeth, but for your overall health and well-being.

At Thrive & Dental Orthodontics, we’re passionate about helping you prevent problems before they start. A professional cleaning is one of the simplest and most powerful tools in your oral health routine. Let’s explore why these appointments matter, what they involve, and how they help keep your smile healthy for the long run.

What Happens During a Professional Teeth Cleaning?

A professional cleaning is far more thorough than what you can do at home—and it’s completely gentle and pain-free.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Plaque and tartar removal with special tools that reach areas your toothbrush can’t
• Polishing to remove surface stains and leave your teeth feeling smooth and clean
• Flossing to clean between every tooth
• Oral health check where your dental team examines your gums and teeth for early signs of issues
• Personalized advice to improve your at-home care routine based on what we see

The entire process typically takes less than an hour and leaves your mouth feeling incredibly fresh.

How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?

For most people, every six months is ideal. That’s what we mean when we say “regular” cleanings. This schedule allows your dentist to stay ahead of any plaque buildup and spot small issues before they become big ones.

However, if you have a history of gum issues or frequent buildup, we may recommend cleanings every 3–4 months to maintain optimal health. Kids, teens, and adults of all ages benefit from staying on a regular cleaning schedule.

Why Regular Cleanings Matter (And What They Actually Do for You)

Professional cleanings do more than make your teeth look good. Here are the biggest benefits:

1. Prevent Cavities and Tooth Decay

Even with daily brushing, plaque can harden into tartar and lead to decay. Cleanings remove that buildup before it has a chance to do harm.

2. Keep Gums Healthy

Healthy gums are the foundation of a healthy smile. Cleanings reduce inflammation, remove bacteria from below the gumline, and help prevent gum disease—one of the most common causes of tooth loss in adults.

3. Brighten Your Smile

Polishing during a cleaning removes surface stains caused by coffee, tea, wine, or everyday foods—no whitening treatments required.

4. Save Money (and Time) in the Long Run

By catching potential issues early, regular cleanings help you avoid more complex procedures like root canals, crowns, or extractions later on.

5. Freshen Your Breath

Bad breath often comes from bacteria hiding between teeth or under the gums. Cleanings target these areas and leave your mouth feeling fresh and clean.

6. Support Your Overall Health

There’s a proven connection between oral health and systemic health. Studies have linked poor gum health to conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Regular cleanings are a simple way to protect your whole body—not just your smile.

Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Smile Between Cleanings

Between visits, a few simple habits go a long way:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss daily (yep, even when you’re tired!)
• Use a mouthwash that targets bacteria
• Drink plenty of water to rinse away food and bacteria
• Eat a balanced diet with plenty of crunchy fruits and vegetables
• Limit sugary snacks and drinks when possible
• Change your toothbrush every 3–4 months or sooner if bristles are frayed

And of course, don’t skip your scheduled cleanings—your future self (and your smile) will thank you!

Ready to Schedule Your Next Cleaning?

Your routine dental visits are about so much more than just clean teeth. They’re about confidence, prevention, and giving your smile the care it deserves.

If it’s been a while since your last cleaning, or if you’re looking for a dental home that puts your comfort and care first, book your appointment at Thrive Dental & Orthodontics today.

We’ll take great care of you, one cleaning at a time.