Professional Teeth Cleaning

What Is Professional Teeth Cleaning?

Professional teeth cleaning (prophylaxis) is a preventive procedure performed by a dental hygienist. Using specialized instruments, the hygienist removes plaque and hardened tartar (calculus) from all tooth surfaces including below the gum line — areas impossible to clean at home. The session ends with polishing to remove surface stains and leave enamel smooth, making it harder for new plaque to stick.

How It Works

The hygienist uses ultrasonic scalers and hand instruments to remove deposits, then flosses between all teeth and polishes with a gritty paste. A fluoride treatment is often applied at the end to strengthen enamel. The process takes 30–60 minutes depending on how much buildup is present.

Key Benefits

• Removes tartar that causes gum disease and bad breath
• Polishing eliminates surface stains from coffee, tea, and wine
• Fluoride treatment strengthens enamel against future cavities
• Gives the hygienist a chance to spot early warning signs
• Leaves your mouth feeling noticeably cleaner

Frequently Asked Questions