Preventative Frequently Asked Questions

If you have a healthy mouth and you're low risk for cavities or gum disease, then you typically need a routine cleaning twice a year. This is known as a prophylaxis and is usually covered 100% by most dental insurance plans.

However, if you're at higher risk — for example, if you’ve had gum disease, a deep cleaning, multiple implants, or a full-mouth reconstruction — then it's best to come in for a cleaning every 3 months. This allows us to maintain your results and prevent harmful bacterial overgrowth.

Your dentist will always recommend the right cleaning schedule based on your individual needs.

Research shows that harmful bacteria begin to repopulate beneath the gums within 90 days. These bacteria can break down bone and tissues, leading to further tooth loss. A 3-month periodontal maintenance cleaning helps keep your gums stable and healthy after a deep cleaning.

Gum disease isn’t always “cured” — it's a chronic condition that requires ongoing maintenance and excellent home care.

Most people think every 6 months — but I recommend changing your toothbrush every month.

Why? The bristles lose their strength quickly, and if your toothbrush is worn out, you're not cleaning your teeth properly, even with perfect technique. Plus, bacteria build up on the bristles — and the last thing you want is to reintroduce bad bacteria into your mouth!

Bad breath can be caused by several things, but here’s what helps:

• Stay hydrated — dry mouth is a major cause of bad breath
• Brush and floss daily — bacteria between teeth causes odor
• Use a tongue scraper — many bacteria live on the tongue
• Use mouthwash — alcohol-free rinses can help

If you still struggle with bad breath despite good habits, talk to your dentist and your physician. Sometimes, it can be linked to an infection in your gums or even gut health.

At Atlantis Dental, we only recommend a deep cleaning (also called scaling and root planing) when your gum and bone health truly require it. This treatment helps stop gum disease before it causes irreversible damage like tooth loss.

1. Bleeding on Probing – Gums that bleed during measurement are inflamed or infected.

2. Bone Loss on X-rays – Lower bone levels on bitewing X-rays indicate active gum disease.

3. Gum Color & Texture – Red, purple, or swollen gums signal bacterial overload.

4. Halitosis – Chronic bad breath often means bacteria are trapped under the gums.

- Irregular dental visits

- Smoking, vaping, or marijuana use

- Genetics and family history

- Bacterial transmission through utensils or kissing

1. 3-Month Maintenance Cleanings – Bacteria regrow at the 3-month mark, so these visits keep bacteria low and help prevent relapse.

2. Personalized Home Care – We provide daily instructions tailored to your needs.

3. Vitamin Support – Vitamin D (with K2) and Vitamin C support gum health and healing.

Most insurance plans cover 3-month maintenance cleanings (at 100% or 80%). However, many plans only cover one deep cleaning every 3 years, so prevention is key to avoid out-of-pocket costs.