Professional dental cleanings are preventive treatments that help remove plaque, tartar, and stains from the teeth. Even with regular brushing and flossing at home, some areas of the mouth are difficult to clean thoroughly. Professional cleanings performed by a dentist or dental hygienist help eliminate buildup that can lead to cavities and gum disease.

During the cleaning procedure, specialized dental instruments are used to carefully remove hardened plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and along the gum line. This step, known as scaling, helps prevent gum inflammation and periodontal disease. After scaling, the teeth are polished with a special dental paste to smooth the surfaces and remove minor stains.