At Witkowski Dental we strongly believe in preventative care for the whole family.  The ADA strongly recommends adults visit the dentist every 6 months for a dental cleaning and checkup exam.  At the 6 months cleanings the hygienist will remove plaque buildup and tarter that develops on and above your gum line.  Over time tarter inevitably build up and only the hygienist has the tools needed to remove build up.   If the tarter is left on and not removed, it will harden on your tooth surface and stain.  You are also at more risk to develop periodontal disease over time.  Leaving hardened tarter on your teeth will create a periodontal pocket leaving you at more risk to develop periodontal disease over time.   Regular cleanings are also necessary to disrupt bacterial colonies that develop in gum pockets over time that have been linked to heart disease. During the exam the dentist will check for both tooth decay and periodontal disease.