Adult Cleanings

A prophylaxis cleaning is a preventive dental procedure performed by a dental hygienist. It involves removing plaque, tartar (calculus), and surface stains from above the gumline on all tooth surfaces. This routine cleaning is designed for patients with generally healthy gums and is the standard cleaning most adults receive at their regular dental visits.

Most people should have a professional cleaning every six months. However, some patients may benefit from more frequent visits—every three or four months—if they have a history of gum disease, heavy tartar buildup, or other risk factors. Your dentist and hygienist will recommend the ideal schedule based on your individual oral health needs.

For most people, a prophylaxis cleaning is completely comfortable. You may feel some minor pressure or vibration as tartar is removed, but it should not be painful. If you have sensitive teeth or gums, let your hygienist know—we can take extra care and even apply a numbing gel to keep you comfortable throughout the visit.

A routine prophylaxis cleaning works above the gumline and is appropriate for patients with healthy gums. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) is a more involved procedure that cleans below the gumline, removing plaque and tartar from the root surfaces of the teeth. Deep cleanings are recommended for patients who show signs of gum disease, such as deeper periodontal pockets, bleeding gums, or bone loss.

A typical prophylaxis cleaning takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how much plaque and tartar buildup is present. Your visit will also include an examination by the dentist, any necessary X-rays, and a discussion about your oral health—so plan for about an hour total.

While a cleaning does not bleach your teeth, it does remove surface stains caused by coffee, tea, wine, and other foods. Many patients notice their teeth look noticeably brighter after a professional cleaning. For more dramatic whitening results, ask us about our professional teeth whitening options.

Your visit begins with a thorough examination of your teeth and gums. The hygienist then uses specialized instruments to carefully remove plaque and tartar from all tooth surfaces. After scaling, your teeth are polished with a mildly abrasive paste to remove remaining surface stains and smooth the enamel. Finally, your teeth are flossed, and a fluoride treatment may be applied for extra protection.

Many dental insurance plans cover preventive cleanings at little to no cost. Coverage varies by plan, so we recommend verifying your specific benefits. Without insurance, a routine cleaning typically ranges between $100 and $200. We also offer our Healthy Smiles membership plan for uninsured patients, which includes cleanings and exams at a significant discount. Our team will verify your coverage before your visit so there are no surprises.

Regular cleanings remove plaque and tartar that your toothbrush and floss cannot reach. Left untreated, this buildup leads to cavities, gum inflammation (gingivitis), and eventually gum disease (periodontitis), which can cause tooth loss. Professional cleanings also give your dentist the opportunity to detect problems early—when treatment is simpler, less invasive, and less expensive.

If a fluoride treatment was applied, avoid eating or drinking for 30 minutes to let the fluoride fully absorb into your enamel. After that, continue your regular brushing and flossing routine. Drink plenty of water, and try to limit sugary or acidic foods between meals. Most importantly, keep your next cleaning appointment on schedule to maintain the results.