When life gets busy, it’s easy to let dental cleanings slide to the bottom of your to-do list. But skipping your preventive visits could cost you more in the long run – not just in terms of your oral health, but also your wallet and your overall well-being.
At Wichita Family Dental, we believe that regular dental cleanings are one of the most important things you can do for your smile. Whether it’s been six months or six years since your last visit, this post will explain why cleanings matter, how often you should really go, and what to expect when you walk into any of our Wichita or Derby locations.
Why Dental Cleanings Are More Than Just a “Polish”
Professional dental cleanings do much more than make your teeth feel smooth and look shiny. They’re a key part of preventive care that:
- Removes hardened plaque (tartar) that brushing and flossing can’t touch
- Prevents gum disease, which is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults
- Identifies problems early like cavities, cracked fillings, or receding gums
- Checks for oral cancer and other underlying issues
- Helps us monitor your dental hygiene habits and give you tips that make a difference
By staying consistent with cleanings, you can avoid more invasive and costly procedures later – like deep cleanings, root canals, or tooth extractions.
So, How Often Should You Get a Dental Cleaning?
The standard recommendation is: Every 6 months for most healthy adults and children
This schedule allows our dental team to catch early warning signs of gum disease or decay and clean areas that daily brushing often misses (like behind your molars or around crowns and fillings).
But that’s not a one-size-fits-all answer.
Some people may need to come every 3–4 months, including those who:
- Have a history of gum disease (periodontitis)
- Have diabetes, heart disease, or a weakened immune system
- Smoke or use tobacco products
- Wear braces or aligners
- Are prone to plaque buildup or cavities
When you visit Wichita Family Dental, we’ll assess your personal risk factors and recommend the right cleaning schedule for you.
What Happens During a Professional Cleaning?
Wondering what to expect? Here’s a step-by-step look at what typically happens during your hygiene appointment:
- Review of Medical and Dental History
- Your hygienist will ask about any changes in health, medications, or concerns.
- Digital X-Rays (if needed)
- These allow us to check for cavities, bone loss, and underlying issues that can’t be seen by the eye.
- Oral Cancer Screening
- We examine your tongue, cheeks, throat, and neck for anything unusual.
- Scaling and Polishing
- We remove plaque and tartar using specialized tools, then polish your teeth to remove stains and smooth the surface.
- Flossing and Fluoride (Optional)
- We’ll give you a deep floss and may apply a fluoride treatment to strengthen enamel and protect against cavities.
- Dental Exam by the Doctor
- One of our dentists will check your teeth, gums, bite, and any problem areas — and discuss any recommendations.
Dental Cleanings for Kids: Starting Good Habits Early
We love seeing patients of all ages at Wichita Family Dental – and that includes little smiles! Children should start seeing a dentist around age 1 or within 6 months of their first tooth erupting.
From that point forward, routine cleanings every 6 months help:
- Prevent early childhood cavities
- Monitor jaw and tooth development
- Build confidence and comfort at the dentist
- Educate families on brushing, flossing, and diet
Our gentle, kid-friendly team knows how to make dental visits fun and stress-free for your youngest family members.
Can a Cleaning Help With Bad Breath or Stained Teeth?
Yes! If you’ve noticed chronic bad breath (halitosis) or dull, yellowing teeth, a cleaning is often the first line of treatment. Plaque buildup, tartar, and trapped food particles can cause odor and discoloration – and even the best at-home brushing can miss trouble spots.
If stains remain after your cleaning, we may recommend professional teeth whitening, veneers, or a cosmetic consultation to explore your options.
What If It’s Been a Long Time Since Your Last Cleaning?
You’re not alone – and you won’t be judged. Whether you’ve skipped a few months or a few years, our team is here to help you get back on track with compassion and care.
We may recommend a deeper cleaning (called scaling and root planing) if there are signs of gum disease, but we’ll walk you through every step and explain your options.
Your oral health is our priority – and it’s never too late to start fresh.
Schedule Your Cleaning at Wichita Family Dental Today
With three convenient locations in East Wichita, West Wichita, and Derby, we make it easy to fit preventive dental care into your life. We offer early morning, evening, and even Saturday appointments, plus online booking and same-day visits for emergencies.
Whether you’re due for your 6-month checkup or looking to get your smile back on track, we’re here to help you protect your health and your confidence – one cleaning at a time. Contact us today.
