Professional dental cleanings are preventive treatments designed to remove plaque, tartar, and stains from the teeth. Even with daily brushing and flossing, some 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 usually includes scaling and polishing. Scaling removes hardened plaque and tartar from the tooth surfaces and along the gum line using specialized dental instruments. Tartar buildup can lead to gum inflammation and periodontal disease if it is not removed regularly. After scaling, the teeth are polished with a special dental paste that smooths the tooth surfaces and removes minor stains.