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

The cleaning process typically includes scaling and polishing. Scaling removes hardened plaque and tartar from the surfaces of the teeth and along the gum line using specialized dental instruments. Tartar buildup can lead to gum inflammation and periodontal disease if not removed regularly. After scaling, the teeth are polished with a special paste to smooth the tooth surfaces and remove minor stains.