Why do you need a professional cleaning?
Even with good brushing, a bacterial film (plaque) builds up on your teeth and hardens over time into tartar, which a toothbrush can't remove. Tartar irritates the gums, causing bleeding and inflammation, and if neglected can lead to gum recession and loose teeth. Regular professional cleaning is one of the most important preventive steps โ and the fastest way to a cleaner, brighter smile.
Signs you need a cleaning
- A hard yellow or brown deposit at the gumline, especially behind the lower front teeth.
- Bleeding gums when brushing.
- Persistent bad breath.
- Stains from coffee, tea or smoking.
- More than six months since your last cleaning.
How scaling and cleaning work
- Examination: checking teeth and gums and measuring gum pockets to decide which type of cleaning you need.
- Ultrasonic scaling: vibrations break up tartar while a water spray gently washes it away.
- Fine hand scaling between teeth and just below the gumline.
- Polishing to remove surface stains and leave teeth smoother, so plaque sticks less.
- Home-care advice: brushing technique and the right floss or interdental brushes for you.
Regular cleaning or deep cleaning?
| Regular cleaning | Deep cleaning (below the gums) | |
|---|---|---|
| For | Healthy gums or mild gingivitis | Periodontitis with deep gum pockets |
| Where | Above and at the gumline | Inside the pockets and on root surfaces |
| Anaesthesia | Usually not needed | Usually local anaesthesia |
| Visits | One | May be split over two or more |
Because Dr. Banan Alhawamdeh is a periodontics specialist, the right type of cleaning is chosen precisely for your gum health.
Does cleaning damage enamel or create gaps?
No. Professional scaling removes only tartar and doesn't harm enamel. Some people notice "gaps" afterwards โ that's because tartar was filling those spaces and hiding gum recession underneath, not because cleaning created them. Mild temporary sensitivity can follow removal of heavy tartar.
How often should you have a cleaning?
- Every 6 months for most people.
- Every 3โ4 months for smokers, people with diabetes, those treated for periodontitis, and anyone who builds up tartar quickly.
Frequently asked questions
Does teeth cleaning hurt?
A regular cleaning usually doesn't hurt, though you may feel mild sensitivity. For deep cleaning we use local anaesthesia for your comfort.
Does cleaning whiten teeth?
It removes tartar and surface stains so teeth look lighter and cleaner, but it doesn't change their underlying colour like whitening does.
Can I remove tartar at home?
No. Tartar is hardened and won't come off with brushing or home remedies, and scraping it with sharp tools can injure the gums.
Is cleaning safe during pregnancy?
Yes โ it's safe and recommended, as gums are more prone to inflammation during pregnancy.
Book a cleaning in Amman
Dr. Banan Alhawamdeh's clinic in Sweifieh: scaling and polishing with a specialist gum assessment. Book your appointment.