If dental cleanings are so vital to not losing teeth, why isn't it covered by health care? (Canada) I recently went to the dentist for a checkup for the first time in 15 years. I had no problems, no cavities, my old fillings were fine, and no blood from her poking around. I floss often and brush twice daily. But the dentist was still very upset when I refused to schedule a dental cleaning. She said that if I don't get one every six months, I'll lose my teeth. If this is really true if I had no other problems? Why isn't it covered by standard health care in that case? Do I really need to get a cleaning once in a while?