The question of how often you should see a dental hygienist does not have a single answer. The right interval is individual — and the research suggests that for many adults, a one-size-fits-all six-monthly recall is not the most effective approach.

Why the right interval varies between people
How quickly plaque accumulates, hardens into tartar and causes gum inflammation differs between individuals. Factors that influence your ideal recall interval include your gum health and history, how well you clean interdentally, whether you have gum disease or a history of it, whether you smoke, your systemic health, and whether you have implants, crowns or bridgework.

What a hygiene appointment actually does
A hygiene appointment removes tartar deposits that cannot be removed by brushing or flossing alone. It also assesses the health of your gums, provides personalised home-care advice and identifies any changes that may need attention. Professional cleaning is not a substitute for thorough daily brushing and interdental cleaning — it complements it.

Signs you may be due a hygiene visit
Bleeding gums when you brush or floss, persistent bad breath despite good hygiene, or a rough or gritty feeling on your teeth are all signs that a hygiene appointment may be overdue. You do not have to wait until your symptoms are severe.

After your appointment
Your hygienist will recommend the right recall interval for your situation. For patients with active gum disease, more frequent appointments (every three months) are often initially needed. For patients with good gum health and excellent home care, longer intervals may be appropriate.

Hygiene and dental implants
If you have dental implants, regular hygiene care is particularly important. Implants can develop peri-implantitis — a type of infection around the implant — if plaque is allowed to accumulate. Your hygienist can show you the most effective cleaning techniques for your specific implant type.