How Often Should You Really Get Your Teeth Cleaned?

"When was your last cleaning?" If your honest answer is "I can't remember," you're in good company — and this guide is for you.

The general rule: every 6 months

For most people, a routine checkup with cleaning and polish every six months keeps gums healthy and catches small problems (like early cavities) while they're still small and inexpensive to fix.

Some people need more frequent care

Patients with gum disease often benefit from a 3–4 month periodontal schedule after deep cleaning (scaling and root planing). Heavy coffee or tea drinkers, smokers, and patients with braces may also need more frequent visits to manage stains and plaque.

What does it cost?

At Modern Smiles, oral prophylaxis is priced by case severity: mild ₱1,500 · moderate ₱2,000 · severe ₱2,500 · deep scaling ₱3,000. For heavy stains and stubborn biofilm, Airflow (Guided Biofilm Therapy) starts at ₱5,000. A dental consultation starts at just ₱500.

What happens during a cleaning?

Your dentist removes tartar and plaque that brushing can't reach, polishes away surface stains, and screens your gums and teeth for anything that needs attention. It typically takes 30–60 minutes, and no — it shouldn't be painful.

Haven't been in years? No judgment.

A large share of adult patients haven't seen a dentist in a long time. A good clinic won't lecture you — they'll simply map out a plan of cleanings, fillings, and preventive care that fits your schedule and budget.

See everyday dental care services or book a checkup — open 6 days a week, Sundays included.