Why Skipping Your Dental Cleaning Could Cost You More Later

Many people see dental cleanings as something they can postpone if their teeth feel fine. But regular cleanings aren’t just about having a brighter smile - they play a crucial role in preventing serious oral health problems. Skipping them may save time in the moment, but it often leads to more complicated and costly treatments later.
 

How Frequently Do You Really Need a Dental Cleaning?

Most dentists recommend scheduling a professional dental cleaning at least twice a year, or every six months. This routine allows your dental team to remove plaque and tartar buildup, check for early signs of cavities or gum disease, and keep your smile healthy.
 

For some patients, such as those with a history of gum disease, frequent cavities, or other ongoing oral health concerns, cleanings may be recommended more often. Staying consistent with your cleanings not only keeps your teeth looking their best but also helps prevent costly and more serious dental problems in the future.
 

The Hidden Dangers of Skipping Cleanings

Plaque and tartar build up quickly, even if you brush and floss daily. A professional cleaning removes what your toothbrush and floss can’t reach, preventing gum disease, cavities, and bad breath. Without regular cleanings, plaque can harden into tartar, which not only damages your teeth but can also lead to more serious oral health conditions.
 

The Cost of Waiting

When you skip cleanings, minor issues that could have been caught early often go unnoticed. Over time, these small concerns can turn into bigger, more expensive problems that require extensive treatment.
 

For example, a small cavity that could have been treated with a simple filling may progress to the point of needing a root canal or crown. What starts as a quick fix can quickly become a more time-consuming and costly procedure.
 

The same is true for gum health. Early signs of gum disease are often reversible with routine care, but without professional cleanings, they may advance into periodontitis. At this stage, treatment can involve deep cleanings, scaling, root planing, or even surgery.
 

In the most severe cases, untreated dental problems can lead to tooth loss. Replacing missing teeth often requires implants or bridges, which are far more expensive and invasive than preventive cleanings.
 

Stay Ahead of Dental Problems at Wanlass Dental

Skipping a dental cleaning may seem like no big deal in the moment, but the long-term consequences can be painful and expensive. Prevention is always easier and more affordable than treatment.
 

If it’s been more than six months since your last dental cleaning, schedule your appointment at Wanlass Dental and protect your smile for the future. Visit our office in Las Vegas, Nevada, or call (702) 367-4412 today.