Dental Cleanings
Fresh, healthy and gentle.
Regular cleanings remove buildup brushing can't, preventing cavities and gum disease.
What is dental cleaning?
A dental cleaning (prophylaxis) removes plaque and tartar from above and just below the gumline, followed by polishing. It's for patients with healthy gums or mild gingivitis. It prevents decay and gum disease. Its main limitation: it doesn't treat deeper gum disease, which needs scaling and root planing.
Who is a candidate?
Often a good fit
- Healthy gums
- Mild gingivitis
- Routine maintenance
- Everyone, every 6 months
Needs extra care or planning
- Deep gum pockets
- Heart conditions requiring antibiotics
- Very sensitive teeth
When an exam is needed: A gum check determines if a regular or deep cleaning is needed.
Problems it can address
Limitations: Not sufficient for periodontal disease.
Benefits and disadvantages
Benefits
- Prevents disease
- Freshens breath
- Removes stains
- Quick and comfortable
Disadvantages
- Mild sensitivity
- Requires regular visits
- May reveal problems
- Cost if uninsured
The treatment process
- 1
Check
Gum measurements.
- 2
Scaling
Tartar removed.
- 3
Polish
Teeth polished.
- 4
Floss
Professional flossing.
- 5
Advice
Home care tips.
Timeline: About 45–60 minutes.
Recovery and aftercare
What to expect
Discomfort: Minimal.
Downtime: None.
Aftercare
- Brush twice daily
- Floss daily
- Return every 6 months
Call us right away if you notice
- Persistent bleeding
- Sensitivity that lasts
- Swelling
Longevity and outcomes
Every 6 months for most people.
What affects your result
- Home care
- Diet
- Smoking
Possible complications
- Gum disease progression if skipped
- Cavities
Cost and payment options
Usually covered by insurance twice a year.
What affects the price
- Insurance
- Frequency
- Additional fluoride
- X-rays
Insurance & financing
We accept most PPO plans and offer financing through CareCredit, Sunbit and others.
Comparison with alternatives
Deep cleaning
For gum disease.
Periodontal maintenance
After gum treatment.
Clinical case examples
Real, patient-authorized cases for this treatment are being added soon, with diagnosis, reasoning and results.
View our Before & After Gallery →Why choose Neo Dental?
Patient reviews
Read what our patients say, in their own words, on independent review sites.
Frequently asked questions
Does it hurt?+
Usually not.
How often?+
Every 6 months.
Why do my gums bleed?+
Often from inflammation; cleanings help.
Can it whiten teeth?+
It removes surface stains.
Is it covered?+
Usually.
Deep vs regular cleaning?+
Deep cleaning treats gum disease below the gumline.
Your care team & booking
Dr. Sol Shahri
General and cosmetic dentist leading every treatment plan at Neo Dental. This page was medically reviewed by Dr. Sol Shahri.
Meet the team →References
Related treatments
Not sure if you need dental cleanings?
Book an exam and we'll explain every option, including the most conservative one.
Book your visit