How Often Teeth Cleaning is needed depends on your unique oral health, but experts generally recommend it every six months. Despite this, many individuals—especially those without dental insurance—skip cleanings due to cost or uncertainty about what services are covered. If you’re wondering what dental services are covered by Medicaid, or whether health insurance will cover dental, this guide will answer your questions. We’ll also explore affordable options in both Canada and the United States, and help you find care even if you’re without insurance or a dentist.
How Often Should You Get Your Teeth Cleaned?
For most healthy individuals, professional teeth cleanings should be scheduled every 6 months. However, your dentist may recommend more frequent visits depending on your personal health history and oral care routine.
Common reasons for more frequent cleanings:
- Gum disease or periodontal concerns
- Diabetes, smoking, or pregnancy
- Dry mouth due to medications
- Orthodontic appliances like braces
- Heavy tartar or plaque buildup
Both Canada’s public dental health departments and U.S.-based dental health partners agree on these guidelines to prevent long-term complications.
Benefits of Regular Dental Cleanings
Routine cleanings by licensed professionals at a dental health center or clinic help you:
- Prevent tooth decay, cavities, and gum disease
- Detect early signs of oral cancer or systemic disease
- Enjoy fresher breath and whiter teeth
- Lower long-term healthcare costs by avoiding major procedures
Whether you’re insured or relying on dental health networks, prevention is the smartest investment.
What Dental Services Are Covered by Medicaid?
Coverage under Medicaid varies between U.S. states and Canadian provincial programs. Here’s what you might expect:
In the United States:
- Children’s dental care is generally covered in full (under CHIP or EPSDT)
- Some states include cleanings, x-rays, fillings, and emergency extractions
- Coverage for adults varies widely—some states offer comprehensive plans, others offer emergency-only services
In Canada:
- Provinces like Ontario, Alberta, and Quebec have dental programs for:
- Children and youth
- Low-income seniors
- Recipients of social assistance
Visit your local dental health department website (e.g., Ontario Health, Health Canada) to explore eligibility.
Dental Care Listings on NoMoreWaitLists:
Will Health Insurance Cover Dental?
In both countries, health insurance typically does not cover dental unless it’s medically necessary. That’s why separate dental health insurance marketplace plans are essential.
These plans often cover:
- Preventive cleanings (often twice annually)
- Diagnostic exams and x-rays
- Fillings, crowns, and extractions
- Root canals and dentures (partial coverage)
You can explore coverage in the U.S. through the HealthCare.gov Dental Marketplace and in Canada through private providers or workplace benefits.
What If You’re Without Dental Insurance?
If you’re without dental insurance or simply can’t afford coverage, don’t panic. Many resources exist in both countries:
In the U.S.:
- Community clinics offer income-based care
- Dental schools provide cleanings at a lower cost
- Some nonprofits work through the dental health net or dental health network
In Canada:
- Public dental programs often cover children, seniors, and low-income individuals
- Dental health centers or mobile units operate in rural and underserved communities
Search online for clinics using terms like “without insurance dentist near me” or explore options on government health websites.
Dental Health Partners: Who They Are and How They Help
Dental health partners include nonprofit clinics, hygienists, school programs, and even mobile units. These groups often operate through dental health networks or provincial initiatives to provide:
- Mobile cleaning services to remote areas
- Subsidized or free dental screenings
- Education and preventive tools for kids and families
In both Canada and the U.S., these partnerships ensure that cost and geography aren’t a barrier to oral health.
What to Expect During a Professional Cleaning
Here’s what happens during a routine cleaning at a dental health center or private clinic:
- Initial exam to check for cavities, inflammation, or recession
- Scaling to remove plaque and tartar
- Polishing with a special paste to smooth surfaces
- Fluoride treatment (optional) to strengthen enamel
The entire process usually takes 30–60 minutes and is typically painless. Ask your provider about any additional care or frequency recommendations.
Children and Teen Dental Cleaning Guidelines
In both countries, children should start dental visits by age 1 or when the first tooth erupts. From there:
- Cleanings every 6 months are encouraged
- Provincial and state dental programs often cover 100% of basic care
- Pediatric dentists also help with fluoride use, sealants, and early orthodontic referrals
Check your eligibility for public programs such as Healthy Smiles Ontario or CHIP in the U.S.
Final Thoughts: How Often Teeth Cleaning Should Be Done—And Where to Get Help
How Often Teeth Cleaning should happen is a question tied closely to your oral and overall health. Whether you’re covered by Medicaid, exploring options through the dental health insurance marketplace, or managing without dental insurance, don’t delay preventive care. Neglecting cleanings leads to expensive, avoidable issues.
If you’re searching for dental providers across Canada or the U.S., NoMoreWaitLists.net helps consumers connect directly with available dental services. Whether you’re insured or not, our platform bridges the gap between health and personal services and the people who need them most. Check our Dental Health category to find care without wait times today.
