Cleaning & Scaling
Maintain optimal oral health with professional dental cleanings and scaling to remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains.
Professional dental cleaning and scaling at The Tooth Stop is a cornerstone of preventive dentistry. Even with diligent brushing and flossing at home, plaque and tartar (calculus) can accumulate in hard-to-reach areas of your mouth, particularly along the gumline and between teeth. If left untreated, this buildup can lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and eventually tooth loss.
During a professional cleaning, our dental hygienist uses specialized instruments — including ultrasonic scalers and hand curettes — to carefully remove plaque and tartar deposits from all tooth surfaces. This process, known as scaling, is followed by polishing to remove surface stains and leave your teeth feeling smooth and clean. For patients with early signs of gum disease, Dr. P Meghana may recommend deep scaling and root planing, which involves cleaning below the gumline to remove bacterial deposits from the root surfaces.
Regular cleanings also serve as an important opportunity for early detection of dental problems. During your visit, Dr. P Meghana will examine your teeth, gums, and oral tissues for signs of cavities, gum disease, oral cancer, and other conditions. Catching these issues early makes treatment simpler, less invasive, and more cost-effective.
The Tooth Stop recommends professional cleanings every six months for most patients, though individuals with gum disease or other risk factors may benefit from more frequent visits. Investing in regular cleanings is one of the most effective ways to protect your oral health and avoid more extensive dental work in the future.
What to Expect
- 1Oral examination by Dr. P Meghana to assess gum health, check for cavities, and identify areas of tartar buildup.
- 2Ultrasonic and hand scaling to remove plaque and tartar from above and below the gumline on all tooth surfaces.
- 3Polishing of the teeth using a professional-grade paste to remove surface stains and smooth the enamel.
- 4Flossing between all teeth to remove any remaining debris and check for areas of concern.
- 5Personalized oral hygiene instructions and scheduling of your next preventive visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get a professional cleaning?
For most patients, we recommend a professional cleaning every six months. However, if you have gum disease, a history of frequent cavities, or other risk factors, Dr. P Meghana may suggest more frequent visits — every three to four months.
Is scaling painful?
Routine scaling is generally comfortable and does not require anesthesia. If you have significant tartar buildup or sensitive gums, we can apply a topical numbing gel or local anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
What is the difference between cleaning and deep cleaning?
A regular cleaning focuses on removing plaque and tartar from the visible tooth surfaces above the gumline. A deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, involves cleaning below the gumline to treat gum disease by removing bacterial deposits from the tooth roots.
Benefits
- Removes plaque and tartar that regular brushing and flossing cannot reach
- Prevents gum disease, cavities, and tooth loss
- Freshens breath by eliminating bacteria-laden deposits
- Allows early detection of dental problems during routine examination
- Removes surface stains for a cleaner, brighter smile
- Supports overall systemic health by reducing oral bacteria linked to heart disease and diabetes
Not sure if you need treatment?
Try our free AI Smile Check — snap a photo, get a screening in 30 seconds.
Looking for care guides, dos & don'ts, or other services?
Browse All Patient Resources