Do You Really Need a Dental Cleaning Every 6 Months?

You may have heard from your dentist or seen it in ads: “Visit us every six months.” But is a twice‑a‑year cleaning really necessary for everyone? The short answer is: it depends.

The American Dental Association generally recommends that most people have a professional cleaning every six months. That’s because even with diligent brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can build up in hard‑to‑reach areas. A professional cleaning removes that buildup, helping prevent gum disease and cavities. According to the Cleveland Clinic, people should “schedule routine cleanings … at least once every six months” for maintenance and early problem detection (Cleveland Clinic).

But “every six months” is a guideline, not a rule carved in stone. Some patients do well with yearly cleanings if they maintain excellent oral hygiene, have no history of gum disease, and have a low risk for decay. Others—especially those with periodontal disease, diabetes, a history of cavities, or habits like smoking—might benefit from cleanings every three or four months to keep things under control.

There’s also the question of how often is too often. Overly frequent cleanings are generally not harmful when done gently and professionally, but there’s little evidence that scaling teeth more often than necessary gives extra benefit. In fact, cleanings spaced out too closely may not allow enough time for natural mineral recovery of enamel and gums.

The ideal frequency depends on your unique oral health picture—your gum stability, history of disease, lifestyle, and risk factors. At your next visit, your dentist can assess your condition and recommend a schedule that balances prevention with avoiding unnecessary procedures.

If you’re unsure which frequency best fits your needs, please don't hesitate to contact us. At Rabalais Dental, we’ll tailor your cleaning schedule so your smile stays healthy—and you don’t pay for what you don’t need.

Sources
Cleveland Clinic, “How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?”
https://www.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/11187-dental-check-up

Maplewood Dental, “How Often Should You Get Your Teeth Professionally Cleaned?”
https://maplewooddental.com/how-often-should-you-get-your-teeth-profesionally-cleaned/

LaVista Park Dental, “How Often Should You Get My Teeth Cleaning at the Dentist?”
https://www.lavistaparkdental.com/how-often-should-i-get-my-teeth-cleaning-at-the-dentist/

Austin Dental Works, “How Often Is Too Often? Understanding Teeth Cleaning Frequency”
https://www.austindentalworks.com/how-often-is-too-often-understanding-teeth-cleaning-frequency-with-dr-lindsey-jaros-in-austin-tx/