Reasons to Get Your Teeth Cleaned Professionally

Why Have Your Teeth Professionally Cleaned

Even if you brush twice a day and clean between your teeth, a professional clean with a hygienist at our Leeds practice still makes a real difference. Here are seven good reasons to book one regularly.

1. Remove tartar you can’t shift at home

However well you brush, some plaque is always left behind. Over time it hardens into tartar, which can’t be removed with a toothbrush. If it is left, it irritates the gums and makes teeth more prone to decay.

2. Reach the places you can’t see

It is hard to clean the backs of your teeth and your back molars properly, and these areas often build up the most plaque. A professional clean reaches every surface. This matters even more if you wear a fixed retainer or have implants, which need very thorough cleaning to stay healthy.

3. Gentle, comfortable cleaning

Appointments are quick and designed to be comfortable. Our hygienists use Airflow, a fine spray of water and powder that lifts surface stains and early tartar more effectively than anything you can do at home, while still being gentle.

4. A brighter, fresher smile

After a clean your teeth feel smoother, look brighter and your breath is fresher, often in a single visit. It is the perfect start before teeth whitening, and helps your result last afterwards.

5. Prevent gum disease

Most adults have some gum disease at some point, usually early gingivitis: swollen gums, bleeding when brushing and bad breath. Left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the bone supporting the teeth is lost and teeth can become loose. Gum disease has also been linked with heart problems and diabetes.

Regular cleaning removes the bacteria that cause it, so short visits now can prevent much bigger problems later.

6. Spot problems early

Your hygienist checks your gums at every visit, recording a basic periodontal examination (BPE) and plaque score so any changes are picked up early. They will also flag anything unusual in your mouth for your dentist to look at.

7. Advice on the right products

With so many toothbrushes, toothpastes and interdental brushes to choose from, it is hard to know what suits you. Your hygienist gets to know your mouth and recommends what will work best. See our guide to manual vs electric toothbrushes.

How often should you go?

Most people benefit from a visit every six months, and more often if you have gum disease, braces or implants. You can book directly with a hygienist without seeing a dentist first.

Common questions

Does a professional clean hurt?
Most people find it comfortable. If your teeth or gums are sensitive, tell your hygienist and they can use a numbing gel to keep you comfortable.

Will it make my teeth whiter?
It removes surface stains from tea, coffee, red wine and smoking, so teeth often look noticeably brighter. It won’t change their natural colour, which is what whitening is for.

My gums bleed when I brush. Should I stop?
No. Bleeding is usually a sign of inflammation caused by plaque. Keep brushing gently, clean between your teeth every day and book a hygiene visit so it can settle.

Do I need a dentist check-up first?
No. You can book straight in with a hygienist on a direct access appointment, and we will let you know if anything needs a dentist to look at it.

For independent advice, the NHS has a helpful guide to keeping your teeth clean.