Regular dental care plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy smile. While brushing and flossing at home are essential, they are not enough to keep plaque and tartar completely under control. Visiting your dentist in Bundoora for a professional scale and clean helps remove build-up in areas you can’t reach and prevents long-term dental issues. At Greenwood Plenty Dental Care, we recommend a tailored approach to how often you should get this treatment based on your oral health needs.

What Is a Scale & Clean?

A scale and clean is a preventive dental treatment designed to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth. Over time, even with daily brushing and flossing, plaque hardens into tartar (also known as calculus), which can’t be removed by a toothbrush. This hardened substance can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and bad breath if left untreated.

The process involves two key steps:

Scaling: Removing tartar and plaque from the tooth surface and below the gum line using specialised tools.
Polishing: Smoothing the tooth surface to make it more difficult for plaque to build up again and to leave your teeth feeling fresh and clean.

How Often Should You Get a Scale & Clean?

For most people, visiting the dentist every six months for a scale and clean is ideal. This interval helps keep plaque build-up under control and allows early detection of any potential issues.

However, frequency can vary depending on individual needs. For example:

Patients with a history of gum disease may need to visit every 3–4 months.
Those with braces or orthodontic appliances might require more frequent cleans to maintain oral hygiene.
Smokers and patients with diabetes are at higher risk of gum disease and may also benefit from more frequent care.

During your routine check-up, your general dentistry provider will assess your oral health and recommend a schedule that suits you best.

Why Is It Important?

Regular professional cleaning is not just about aesthetics—it’s about long-term health.

Prevents gum disease: Scaling removes bacteria that cause inflammation and gum infection.
Protects tooth enamel: Tartar can lead to decay if not removed, resulting in cavities.
Fresher breath: Removing plaque and bacteria helps eliminate odours.
Early detection of issues: During the check-up, your dentist can identify any concerns such as early signs of decay, cracks, or potential need for a root canal treatment.

Scale & Clean for Children

Children also benefit greatly from regular cleaning. Introducing dental visits early helps establish healthy habits and reduces dental anxiety over time. A visit to the kids dentist every six months is usually recommended, depending on the child’s oral development and risk of decay.

The process for children is gentle and often includes additional preventive care like fluoride treatment or fissure sealants to protect young teeth from cavities.

Emergency Dental Situations and Hygiene

Skipping routine cleans can sometimes lead to infections or sudden pain, which may result in a visit to an emergency dentist. Gum infections and deep decay are often preventable with regular professional cleaning.

If you experience bleeding gums, bad breath, or sensitivity, it’s best to schedule a visit sooner rather than wait for your next routine appointment.

During Orthodontic Treatment

Patients undergoing orthodontic care, such as those treated by an orthodontist, should be especially mindful of their cleaning schedule. Braces, wires, and clear aligners can trap food and plaque more easily, increasing the risk of decay and gum issues.

Professional cleaning during orthodontic treatment supports better outcomes by keeping teeth and gums in good condition throughout the process.

Can You Pair It with Teeth Whitening?

If you’re considering teeth whitening, it’s recommended to have a professional clean first. A clean surface helps whitening treatments work more effectively and evenly. Your dentist will advise on the best timing and whether your oral health is in good condition for cosmetic treatment.

Making Oral Health a Priority

Maintaining good oral hygiene is a partnership between you and your dental team. Daily care at home—brushing twice a day, flossing, and limiting sugary snacks—combined with professional care, ensures your teeth and gums stay healthy for years to come.

Scheduling your regular scale and clean also provides peace of mind, knowing that any potential issues are caught early. If you’re searching for a reliable dentist near me, we’re here to support your smile every step of the way.

Book Your Next Scale & Clean in Bundoora

At Greenwood Plenty Dental Care, our experienced team is here to make your scale and clean appointment comfortable, effective, and personalised. Whether it’s your routine check-up or your first visit, we’ll guide you with honest advice and high-quality care.

Call us today on (03) 9466 7843 to schedule your appointment and take a positive step towards long-term oral health with a dental team you can trust. Greenwood Plenty Dental Care welcomes patients of all ages across Bundoora and surrounding suburbs.