Professional dental cleanings are preventive treatments designed to remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains from the teeth. Even with daily brushing and flossing, certain areas of the mouth can be difficult to clean thoroughly. Professional cleanings performed by a dentist or dental hygienist ensure that these areas are properly cleaned, helping maintain healthy teeth and gums.

The cleaning process typically includes scaling and polishing. Scaling removes hardened plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces 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 that smooths the surfaces and removes minor stains.