What is a professional dental cleaning?
A professional cleaning is a thorough clean of your teeth done at the practice. It removes plaque and tartar, the deposits that brushing at home can't fully get rid of, especially between teeth and along the gumline.
Plaque and tartar are among the most common causes of red gums, bad breath and, over time, cavities and gum disease. Dealing with them regularly helps lower those risks.
Who is it for?
Pretty much everyone, adults and children. How often you need it depends on you: some people do well with a cleaning once a year, while others, for example people who build up tartar quickly, wear braces or have gum problems, may benefit from more frequent visits. The dentist will suggest a schedule that suits you.
- You notice bleeding gums when you brush
- You wear braces, dentures or have implants
- You smoke or drink a lot of coffee or tea
- It has been more than a year since your last check-up
What happens during the visit
The appointment starts with a short chat and a check of your teeth, gums and mouth. After that, it usually goes like this:
- Tartar is removed above and below the gumline
- Plaque and surface stains are cleaned off
- Teeth are polished so the surface feels smoother
- You get personal tips on brushes, floss and interdental brushes
After your visit
Right after the cleaning, your teeth feel smooth and clean. If your gums were inflamed, you may have mild soreness or some sensitivity for a day or two, which normally passes on its own. If the dentist suggests it, avoid foods and drinks that stain for a few hours.
A professional cleaning works best together with good habits at home: brushing twice a day and using floss.
When to come in
Book a visit if you notice bleeding, swollen gums, lasting bad breath, sensitivity, or if it has simply been a while since your last check-up. Prevention is almost always easier, and less involved, than treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Does a dental cleaning hurt?
Usually not. You may feel a little discomfort if your gums are inflamed or your teeth are sensitive. If you are worried, tell the dentist and she can adapt the way she works.
How often should I have one?
It depends on the person. For many people once or twice a year is enough, but the dentist may suggest a different schedule based on the health of your gums.
Does cleaning damage tooth enamel?
Not when it is done properly. It removes deposits and surface stains without harming the enamel. If your teeth feel different afterwards, it is simply because the tartar is gone.
Further reading (in Italian)
- Ogni quanto va fatta l'igiene dentale?
- Come lavare bene i denti: spazzolino, filo e scovolini
- Sangue dalle gengive: quando preoccuparsi
- Alito cattivo: cause e cosa fare
Other treatments
- Oral surgery
- Restorative dentistry
- Endodontics
- Cosmetic dentistry
- Dental implants
- Orthodontics
- Pediatric dentistry
- Prosthodontics
- Teeth whitening
General information only: it does not replace a check-up. Only a dentist can assess your individual case.
Would you like a first visit?
Write to us: we will explain everything calmly.