Even if your teeth feel fine, you might be overdue for a professional dental cleaning. Most plaque and tartar buildup happens quietly — without pain or visible damage — until it leads to something more serious.
If you're in North Bethesda and wondering whether it’s time to schedule a cleaning, these five signs can help you decide.
Bleeding gums aren’t normal. If you see pink in the sink after brushing or flossing, it's a sign of inflammation, often caused by built-up plaque beneath the gumline. Left untreated, this can lead to gingivitis or advanced gum disease.
Regular cleanings help prevent this by removing hardened tartar that your toothbrush can’t reach.
Occasional bad breath is common — especially after coffee or a garlicky meal. But persistent bad breath, known as halitosis, can indicate a deeper problem. It often stems from bacteria hiding between teeth or under the gums.
A professional cleaning targets those hard-to-reach areas, helping restore fresh breath and prevent infection.
Run your tongue along your teeth. Do they feel smooth or slightly textured? That roughness can be plaque beginning to harden into tartar, which won’t come off with brushing alone.
Cleanings remove tartar buildup and polish your enamel, restoring that just-cleaned feeling you can’t get at home.
Even if you don’t notice any obvious issues, routine cleanings every six months are the best way to catch small problems early. It’s also when your dentist checks for:
If your calendar says it’s been more than six months, you’re due.
Tooth sensitivity could be caused by exposed roots or enamel erosion — both linked to plaque buildup and gum recession. A dental cleaning won’t just help alleviate discomfort; it lets your dentist identify the cause and suggest the right treatment.
At White Flint Dental, we make cleanings comfortable, thorough, and easy to schedule. Whether it’s been six months or six years, our friendly team meets you where you are — no lectures, just quality care.
We use modern tools to remove buildup gently and thoroughly, keeping your teeth and gums healthy long-term.
If you recognized even one of the signs above, it’s time to schedule your next visit. Don’t wait for symptoms to get worse. Keeping your smile clean today helps you avoid bigger procedures tomorrow.
Schedule Your Dental Cleaning in North Bethesda Now