Without proper care at home, plaque buildup on teeth can harden into tartar which requires professional removal from the dentist. With their small mirror in hand for close guidance, the hygienist will use a scaler to scrape away any existing tartar deposits around your gum line or between your teeth.

Professional dental cleanings use toothpaste with a gritty texture for the perfect level of polishing. It works to remove tartar and plaque buildup while also maintaining enamel strength. Though it's recommended that patients have these deeper cleanings twice per year from an expert hygienist who uses high-powered electric brushes, it is important not to overdo at-home scrubbing as harsh treatments can damage teeth's protective layer of enamel.

To achieve optimal oral health truly, regular professional flossing should be part of your routine. Your dental hygienist can search those hard-to-reach areas and identify any signs that indicate more attention is needed in certain spots to avoid gum irritation or bleeding.

You rinse out your mouth to get rid of any debris.

This is the last step in the cleaning process. In this treatment, your dentist will use a protectant for your teeth. A mouthpiece containing either a foamy gel or sticky paste will be placed on your teeth. Then comes the fluoride varnish application with its one-minute contact time and quick hardening feature that allows for immediate eating and drinking afterward.