Let’s be honest—most people don’t jump for joy at the thought of a dental appointment. But when it comes to your long-term oral health, dental cleaning is not something to avoid. It’s more than just a polish and rinse; it’s a preventive care powerhouse that keeps cavities, gum disease, and even bad breath at bay. And if you're looking for dental cleaning in Brampton or teeth cleanings in Woodbridge, this blog is your go-to guide.

In this comprehensive article, we’ll walk you through everything that happens during a professional dental cleaning, explain why it matters, and equip you with insights straight from the dental chair. Let’s dive in!

What happens during a dental cleaning?

 During a dental cleaning, your hygienist removes plaque and tartar, performs a deep cleaning with scaling, polishes your teeth, and may apply fluoride. It’s a painless and preventive procedure done to keep your gums and teeth healthy.

What is Dental Cleaning?

Dental cleaning refers to a professional procedure done by a dentist or dental hygienist to remove plaque, tartar (hardened plaque), and stains from your teeth. Unlike regular brushing and flossing, this procedure targets buildup that can’t be removed at home.

Dental cleanings are generally recommended every 6 months, though those with periodontal issues may need them more frequently. It's a crucial part of maintaining not just oral hygiene but your overall health as well.

Step-by-Step Process of Dental Cleaning

Let’s break down the process of dental cleaning so you know exactly what to expect.

Step 1: Physical Examination

The cleaning process usually begins with a comprehensive oral exam. Using a small mirror, the hygienist checks for signs of inflamed gums, cavities, or other oral issues. If any serious problems are found, the dentist may step in before proceeding further.

Step 2: Scaling

This step involves removing plaque and tartar from around your gum line and between your teeth. A tool called a scaler is used manually or with an ultrasonic scaler, which uses vibrations to loosen the hardened deposits. Tartar can’t be removed by brushing, making this an essential step.

Pro Tip: The more tartar you have, the longer the scaling will take. Regular brushing and flossing reduce buildup.

Step 3: Polishing

Once your teeth are tartar-free, the hygienist uses a high-powered electric brush and gritty toothpaste to polish your teeth. This removes minor stains and smooths the enamel to make it harder for plaque to stick in the future.

Step 4: Flossing

Even if you floss at home, professional flossing is much more thorough. It helps remove any debris left behind during polishing and checks your gum response.

Step 5: Rinsing

You’ll be asked to rinse with a liquid solution, often containing fluoride, to flush out any debris.

Step 6: Fluoride Treatment

A fluoride gel or varnish is applied to your teeth to strengthen enamel and provide protection against cavities for several months. In 2024, many dentists are also offering nano-hydroxyapatite treatments as a natural alternative to fluoride.

Dental Cleaning in Brampton vs. Regular Cleanings

People often wonder if there’s any difference in receiving dental cleaning in Brampton versus another city. While the procedure remains standardized, what matters most is the clinic’s hygiene standards, technology, and expertise. Sunny Day Dental, for instance, uses the latest ultrasonic scalers and ensures a comfortable, gentle cleaning experience, making it a top choice even for those with sensitive gums.

How Long Does a Dental Cleaning Take?

A typical dental cleaning session lasts between 30 to 60 minutes. If it’s been a while since your last visit or if you have periodontal disease, it might take longer.

Is Dental Cleaning Painful?

Most people find dental cleaning completely painless, though some may experience slight discomfort during scaling if they have sensitive teeth or inflamed gums. The key is to communicate with your dental team—they can adjust pressure or apply a numbing gel if needed.

Aftercare: What to Expect Post-Cleaning

• Mild sensitivity is common after a deep cleaning. It usually goes away within 24–48 hours.

• Avoid staining foods/drinks (like coffee or wine) for at least 24 hours.

• Brush gently and use a soft-bristled toothbrush.

The Benefits of Regular Dental Cleanings

Here’s why scheduling regular teeth cleanings in Woodbridge is a smart move:

Prevents gum disease: Removes plaque before it turns into tartar. 

Early detection: Identifies cavities, oral cancer, or gum issues early.

 Fresher breath: Bacteria buildup can cause bad breath. 

Brighter smile: Polishing removes surface stains. 

Saves money: Preventive care is always cheaper than restorative treatment.

Dental Cleaning in Children and Seniors

Children need their first dental cleaning by the age of 1 or when their first tooth erupts. For seniors, professional cleanings are crucial to prevent gum recession, tooth loss, and systemic conditions like heart disease linked to poor oral hygiene.

Cost of Dental Cleaning in Canada (As of 2024)

The average cost of a standard dental cleaning in Ontario, including Brampton and Woodbridge, ranges from CAD $120 to $250 depending on the clinic and the complexity of the case. Some insurance plans cover two cleanings annually.

How Often Should You Get Dental Cleanings?

The Canadian Dental Association recommends a professional dental cleaning every 6 months. If you have a history of gum disease, you may need to visit every 3–4 months.

Ready for Your Next Dental Cleaning?

If you’re due for a cleaning or just want to experience a comfortable, thorough check-up, Sunny Day Dental in Woodbridge is here to help. Our clinic offers professional teeth cleanings in Woodbridge that are gentle, effective, and personalized to your needs. Whether you're looking for regular preventive care or a deep cleaning session, our dental hygienists and dentists use the latest techniques to ensure a bright, healthy smile every time.

FAQs

1. What tools are used during a dental cleaning?

Dentists and hygienists use scalers (manual or ultrasonic), polishers, suction devices, and fluoride applicators. Each tool plays a role in removing debris, polishing teeth, and applying protective treatments.

2. Can I eat immediately after a dental cleaning?

Yes, you can eat right after unless you’ve received a fluoride treatment—then you should wait at least 30 minutes to let the fluoride absorb fully into your enamel.

3. Why do gums bleed during a dental cleaning?

Gums may bleed if you have gingivitis or gum inflammation, usually due to plaque buildup. Regular cleanings help reduce this inflammation over time.

4. What is a deep cleaning, and how is it different?

Deep cleaning, or scaling and root planing, is recommended for patients with gum disease. It goes beyond a regular cleaning, targeting the roots of the teeth to remove bacteria below the gum line.

5. Are dental cleanings safe during pregnancy?

Absolutely. In fact, maintaining good oral hygiene during pregnancy is essential to prevent pregnancy gingivitis and protect both mother and baby’s health.