Many people come in for a cleaning about twice a year, and for a lot of adults that works well. But the right schedule is personal: it depends on your teeth, your gums and your health, and your dentist will suggest one that fits you — and explain why.

What a professional cleaning does

Plaque is the soft, sticky film that builds up on teeth every day. Brushing and cleaning between your teeth remove most of it, but not all. What’s left can harden into tartar, which a toothbrush can’t remove. A professional cleaning takes off plaque and tartar, including along the gumline, and then your teeth are polished smooth.

Why some people come more often

Your dentist may suggest more frequent visits if, for example:

• your gums tend to bleed or have been treated for gum disease
• tartar builds up quickly for you
• you have a health condition or take medicines that affect your mouth
• you smoke or use tobacco

Others may do well on a longer interval. Either way, the schedule is a recommendation you can talk through, not a fixed rule.

Between visits

• Brush twice a day for about two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste.
• Clean between your teeth once a day — floss, interdental brushes or a water flosser all count.
• Limit sugary drinks and snacks between meals.

If your gums often bleed when you brush, mention it at your next visit. It’s common, and it’s worth checking.

When you’re ready, send a request and choose Cleaning and exam — the two usually go together.