Most people should get a professional teeth cleaning and checkup about every six months, though some need visits more often. The right schedule depends on your gum health, cavity risk and medical history. At Southdale Dental Office in London, ON, your dentist recommends a plan that fits you during your New Patient Exam and Cleaning. Book a visit to get started.
How Often Should You Get Your Teeth Cleaned?
Every six months is the most common recommendation for adults and children, because it gives your dental team regular chances to remove buildup and spot problems early. Some patients benefit from more frequent visits, such as those who build up tartar quickly, have signs of gum disease or get cavities often. Others with very healthy mouths may be advised to come less often. Your dentist sets the right schedule after your exam.
What Happens During a Professional Teeth Cleaning?
A professional cleaning is a gentle, thorough visit that goes well beyond brushing at home. Here is what to expect:
- Exam and history: Your dentist or hygienist reviews your dental and medical history and checks your teeth, gums and mouth.
- X-rays when needed: Dental images are taken only if they help your dentist see what is beneath the surface.
- Plaque and tartar removal: Hygiene tools remove the hardened buildup that a toothbrush cannot reach.
- Polishing: Your teeth are polished to remove surface stains and leave them feeling smooth.
- Recommendations: We explain what we found and how to care for your teeth until your next visit.
Your New Patient Exam and Cleaning also includes an oral cancer screening, which checks your mouth, tongue and throat for unusual changes.
Why Are Regular Dental Cleanings Important?
Regular cleanings are a core part of general dentistry and protect your teeth and gums before small problems become painful or costly. Plaque that is not removed hardens into tartar, which can lead to cavities and gum inflammation. Catching decay early often means a simpler dental filling instead of larger treatment later. Cleanings also keep your smile looking fresh and give your dentist a clear baseline for tracking changes over time.
Who Needs Dental Cleanings More Often?
Some patients do better on a shorter schedule, such as every three to four months, depending on what their dentist finds. This may apply if you:
- Have bleeding or swollen gums
- Build up plaque or tartar quickly
- Get cavities frequently
- Smoke or have a dry mouth
- Wear braces, including FASTBRACES®
Your dentist will explain why a different schedule helps and what it means for your care.
How Often Should Kids Get Teeth Cleanings?
Most children benefit from a checkup and cleaning about every six months, starting early so they feel comfortable at the dentist. Regular visits let us watch growing teeth, and preventive care such as dental sealants helps protect them from decay. Our gentle pediatric dentistry care welcomes children of every age in a calm, friendly setting.
Use Your Dental Benefits Before the Year Ends
November is a good time to book a cleaning, because many private dental plans reset on December 31 and unused coverage often does not carry over. Plan years differ, so check your own benefits. If you do not have private coverage, the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) may help depending on your eligibility. Our team helps with claims and explains any out of pocket costs before treatment. Read our new patient guide to see what to bring.
How to Keep Your Teeth Clean Between Visits
Good daily habits make every professional cleaning more effective. Try to:
- Brush twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily or use interdental cleaners
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks
- Replace your toothbrush about every three months
- Keep your appointments, even when nothing hurts
Why Choose Southdale Dental Office for Teeth Cleaning in London, ON?
Since 1995, families from London, St. Thomas, Komoka and Dorchester have trusted Southdale Dental Office for gentle, judgment free general dentistry. Meet our dentists before your first visit.
- Experienced, trusted dentists with decades of combined experience
- Transparent pricing and insurance friendly billing
- Saturday appointments from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., plus weekday hours
- Conscious and mild sedation for nervous patients
- An English and Arabic speaking team
Book Your Teeth Cleaning in London, ON
We are accepting new patients. Request an appointment online, call 519-686-4867 or contact our team. You will find us at 104-553 Southdale Rd E, London, ON N6C 1A2.
Teeth Cleaning FAQs
How often should adults get their teeth cleaned?
Most adults should get a professional teeth cleaning and checkup about every six months. Some people need visits more often, such as those with gum disease, frequent cavities or fast tartar buildup. Others with very healthy mouths may be advised to come less often. Your dentist recommends the right schedule for you after your exam.
Is a teeth cleaning the same as a deep cleaning?
No. A routine cleaning removes plaque and tartar to keep healthy gums healthy, while a deeper gum treatment is recommended when gum disease is present. Your dentist examines your gums, explains which one you need and why, and walks you through the cost before treatment begins. You can read more about our gum disease treatment.
Does a teeth cleaning hurt?
Most patients feel little more than light pressure. If your gums or teeth are sensitive, or if you have a lot of tartar buildup, you may feel mild discomfort for a short time. Tell your hygienist as soon as you feel it, and we will adjust our approach so you stay comfortable throughout your visit.
How long does a teeth cleaning take?
A routine cleaning is usually completed in a single visit. A New Patient Exam and Cleaning takes longer because it includes a full exam, a review of your history and any X-rays your dentist needs. Our front desk team will tell you what to expect for your appointment when you book.
Does dental insurance cover teeth cleanings?
Most preventive care, including a New Patient Exam and Cleaning, is typically covered by private dental insurance. The Canadian Dental Care Plan may also help depending on your eligibility. Our team can help you submit your claim and explains any out of pocket costs before treatment, so you know what to expect.
What should I bring to my first teeth cleaning appointment?
Bring photo ID, your insurance details and a list of your current medications. If you have records or X-rays from a previous dentist, you can bring or forward them, although it is not required. Arriving a few minutes early to complete paperwork helps your visit run smoothly from start to finish.
Can I skip a cleaning if my teeth feel fine?
It is best not to. Cavities and early gum disease often cause no pain at first, so problems can grow unnoticed between visits. A regular exam and cleaning lets your dentist catch small issues early, when treatment is usually simpler and more comfortable. Feeling fine is a good sign, and regular visits help keep it that way.
How often should children get their teeth cleaned?
Most children benefit from a checkup and cleaning about every six months, starting early so they feel comfortable at the dentist. Regular visits help us watch growing teeth and protect them with preventive care such as dental sealants. Our gentle team welcomes children of every age in a calm, friendly setting.
What if I have not had a cleaning in years?
Please do not worry. Our team provides gentle, judgment free care, and we are happy to welcome you back. We start with an exam and a conversation about your concerns. If there is heavy buildup or a gum concern, your dentist may recommend more than one visit and will explain each step and cost clearly.
Can I get a teeth cleaning if I feel anxious about the dentist?
Yes. Many patients feel nervous before a cleaning, and our team takes the time to explain each step. Conscious and mild sedation are also available for patients who need extra help staying relaxed. Read our guide to dental anxiety and conscious sedation, or tell us about your concerns when you book.
Is Southdale Dental Office accepting new patients for exams and cleanings in London, ON?
Yes. We welcome new patients from London, St. Thomas, Komoka and Dorchester, and we do our best to accommodate short notice appointments. Call 519-686-4867 or request an appointment online to book your New Patient Exam and Cleaning. Saturday appointments are available from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.