Dental cleaning is a preventive dental procedure that helps maintain healthy teeth and gums by removing plaque, tartar, and surface stains. Even with regular brushing and flossing, some areas of the mouth are difficult to clean thoroughly. Professional dental cleaning performed by a dentist or dental hygienist ensures that these areas are properly cleaned, helping prevent cavities and gum disease.

The procedure usually involves scaling and polishing. Scaling removes hardened plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth and along the gum line using specialized dental instruments. This step is important because tartar buildup can lead to gum inflammation and periodontal disease if left untreated. After scaling, the teeth are polished with a special dental paste to smooth the surface and remove minor stains.