Six months is the default, not the rule. Gum health, smoking, diabetes and how fast you build tartar all change how often you actually need a cleaning.
Brushing misses the back of the tongue and between the teeth, where most bad breath starts. Here are the five real causes and what actually clears it up.
Morning jaw ache, temple headaches, flattened front teeth and a white line inside your cheek all point to night grinding. Here is what to look for and why it matters.