Most dentists recommend a checkup and cleaning every six months, but the right interval depends on your individual risk factors. Patients with a history of gum disease, frequent cavities, or certain medical conditions may benefit from visits every three to four months, while some patients with excellent oral hygiene and low cavity risk can safely stretch to once a year with their dentist’s approval. The cleaning itself removes plaque and tartar buildup that brushing and flossing can’t reach, especially below the gumline, and the exam catches small problems — a hairline crack, the start of a cavity, early gum recession — while they’re still inexpensive and painless to treat. Skipping visits doesn’t save money in the long run; it just delays a bigger, more expensive problem.
July 21, 2026