By the team at Marina Dentistry, Marina del Rey, CA
Everyone knows daily brushing and flossing are essential—but even the best home routine can’t remove all plaque and tartar. That’s where professional dental cleanings come in.
At Marina Dentistry, we help patients throughout Marina del Rey, Venice, Playa del Rey, and Santa Monica maintain healthy, beautiful smiles with preventive cleanings tailored to their needs. But one of the most common questions we hear is:
“How often should I get my teeth cleaned?”
The answer depends on your oral health, lifestyle, and risk factors—but for most adults, visiting the dentist every six months is ideal.
Let’s break down why—and when you might need to come in more frequently.
Why Professional Dental Cleanings Matter
Even with perfect brushing, plaque bacteria can build up in hard-to-reach places—like along the gumline and between teeth. When plaque hardens into tartar (calculus), it can only be removed with professional tools.
Regular cleanings help prevent:
- Gum disease (gingivitis and periodontitis)
- Tooth decay and cavities
- Staining and discoloration
- Bad breath
- Bone loss around teeth
“Professional cleanings aren’t just about a brighter smile—they’re about keeping your gums and bone healthy for life,” explains Dr. Sameer Aljanedi, founder of Marina Dentistry.
The Standard Recommendation: Every Six Months
The American Dental Association (ADA) and most dentists—including our team at Marina Dentistry—recommend that healthy adults schedule a cleaning and exam twice a year.
Here’s why the six-month interval works so well:
- Plaque and tartar accumulate slowly over time. A six-month schedule removes buildup before it causes harm.
- It allows your dentist to catch small issues early, like a cavity or gum inflammation, before they become serious (and expensive).
- For patients with dental insurance, biannual cleanings are often fully covered.
When You Might Need Cleanings More Frequently
Some patients benefit from visiting every three to four months—especially if they’re at higher risk for gum disease or decay.
You may need more frequent cleanings if you have:
- Gum disease or bleeding gums
- History of bone loss or periodontal pockets
- Diabetes or other systemic conditions that affect healing
- Smoker or vape habit
- Dry mouth (xerostomia) due to medications or age
- High cavity rate or previous dental restorations
- Orthodontic aligners or braces, which trap plaque more easily
“We personalize cleaning schedules for every patient,” says Dr. Aljanedi.
“Some need three-month visits for gum therapy, others do great with twice a year. It’s not one-size-fits-all.”
What Happens During a Professional Dental Cleaning
A professional cleaning (also called a prophylaxis) is more thorough than what you can do at home—and it’s comfortable, quick, and preventive.
Here’s what to expect at your visit to Marina Dentistry:
1. Comprehensive Exam
Dr. Aljanedi and our hygienist evaluate your teeth, gums, and soft tissues for early signs of decay, gum disease, or oral cancer.
2. Scaling
Your hygienist removes plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline using gentle ultrasonic instruments.
3. Polishing
We polish away surface stains to leave your teeth smooth and bright.
4. Flossing & Rinse
A professional floss removes any remaining debris, and you’ll rinse with a mouthwash or fluoride solution.
5. Personalized Recommendations
Our team provides tips for brushing, flossing, and products suited to your needs—plus, we’ll help schedule your next cleaning.
The Link Between Oral Health and Overall Health
Regular cleanings do more than protect your teeth—they also help safeguard your overall health.
Research has linked gum disease to serious systemic conditions, including:
- Heart disease and stroke
- Diabetes complications
- Respiratory infections
- Alzheimer’s disease and cognitive decline
- Premature birth and low birth weight
Chronic inflammation in the gums can allow harmful bacteria to enter the bloodstream, affecting other organs.
By controlling gum inflammation with regular cleanings, you also support your body’s immune system and reduce systemic inflammation.
Signs You’re Overdue for a Cleaning
If it’s been more than six months since your last visit, watch for these warning signs:
⚠️ Gums that bleed when brushing or flossing
⚠️ Persistent bad breath or bad taste
⚠️ Yellow or brown buildup near the gumline
⚠️ Tooth sensitivity to cold or sweets
⚠️ Puffy, red, or receding gums
Even if your teeth look fine, these subtle symptoms can indicate early gum disease—which is easiest to treat when caught early.
Preventive Cleanings vs. Deep Cleanings: What’s the Difference?
If gum disease is present, you may need a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) instead of—or in addition to—a regular cleaning.
| Type of Cleaning | Purpose | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Cleaning (Prophylaxis) | Removes plaque and tartar above the gumline | Every 6 months for healthy patients |
| Deep Cleaning (Scaling & Root Planing) | Treats gum disease by cleaning below the gumline | Every 3–4 months until gums stabilize |
Your dentist will recommend the right type based on your gum health and pocket depth measurements.
How to Keep Your Smile Clean Between Visits
Professional cleanings are essential—but maintaining your results at home keeps your mouth healthy year-round.
Daily habits to protect your teeth:
✅ Brush twice a day for 2 minutes with fluoride toothpaste
✅ Floss once daily to remove food particles between teeth
✅ Use an antibacterial or fluoride mouth rinse
✅ Limit sugary foods and beverages
✅ Stay hydrated to prevent dry mouth
✅ Replace your toothbrush every 3 months (or sooner if frayed)
Why Westside LA Residents Choose Marina Dentistry
Located in the heart of Marina del Rey, Marina Dentistry has earned a reputation for gentle, high-quality preventive care.
Our team blends advanced technology—like digital x-rays and ultrasonic scalers—with a warm, patient-first approach.
Whether you need a simple cleaning or periodontal therapy, you’ll enjoy:
- A clean, modern office near Lincoln Boulevard and the Marina harbor
- Convenient scheduling for busy professionals
- Clear communication and transparent treatment plans
- A friendly, experienced staff led by Dr. Sameer Aljanedi
Frequently Asked Questions (for FAQ Schema)
How long does a professional cleaning take?
Usually 45–60 minutes, depending on buildup and gum condition.
Does dental cleaning hurt?
Cleanings are gentle and comfortable. For sensitive gums, we can apply numbing gel or use ultrasonic tools for a softer touch.
Can I whiten my teeth after a cleaning?
Yes! Cleanings remove buildup, making whitening treatments more effective and even.
Is twice a year enough if I have gum disease?
No—most patients with gum disease need maintenance visits every 3–4 months until gums heal.
Schedule Your Next Cleaning in Marina del Rey
A professional cleaning isn’t just routine maintenance—it’s an investment in your lifelong oral and overall health.
Whether it’s been six months or six years, Marina Dentistry makes getting back on track easy and comfortable.
Call (310) 578-5000 or request an appointment online to schedule your dental cleaning in Marina del Rey today.
We proudly serve patients from Venice, Playa del Rey, Santa Monica, and all of Westside LA.
