You’ve probably heard the standard advice: visit your dentist twice a year for cleanings. But have you ever wondered why this schedule is recommended—and what happens if you skip it? At Parkway Dental, we want you to understand the value of regular cleanings, not just as a routine, but as a vital part of protecting your long-term health.
Professional cleanings go beyond what you can do at home with a toothbrush and floss. Our hygienists use specialized tools to remove hardened plaque (tartar) that builds up over time, even with good oral hygiene. This is especially important along the gumline, where bacteria can cause inflammation, bleeding, and the early stages of gum disease.
If left unchecked, tartar buildup can lead to more advanced periodontal disease, which can cause gum recession, tooth loss, and even contribute to systemic health problems. Research has linked gum disease to an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and complications in diabetes. A dental cleaning is about more than a polished smile—it’s about disease prevention and early detection.
During your cleaning, we also screen for cavities, oral cancer, bite issues, and other concerns that may not be causing symptoms yet. Catching these issues early saves you time, discomfort, and money in the long run. It’s much easier to treat a small cavity than a tooth that needs a root canal or extraction.
For most patients, a cleaning every six months is the ideal schedule. However, if you have a history of gum disease, a weakened immune system, or other risk factors, we may recommend more frequent visits. We tailor our recommendations based on your individual needs—not a one-size-fits-all formula.
Dental cleanings are simple, affordable, and take less than an hour—but the benefits last far longer. If it’s been more than six months since your last cleaning, we encourage you to schedule a visit at Parkway Dental at (203) 248-0011. It’s one of the easiest and most effective ways to invest in your health and your smile.