Teeth Cleaning in Santa Monica

You floss, brush, and perhaps even swirl with mouthwash. So why do you still need professional teeth cleaning? Simple—there are spots in your mouth that your toothbrush just can’t reach, no matter how careful you are. That’s where plaque and tartar build up, and that’s when problems can start.

Getting your teeth professionally cleaned isn’t just about having a bright smile for your next beach day in Santa Monica. It’s about keeping your mouth healthy and avoiding bigger (and more expensive) dental issues later on. And honestly? After a thorough cleaning, nothing compares to the sensation of smoothness and freshness. It’s like hitting reset for your whole mouth.

Professional teeth cleaning, or "prophylaxis" as dentists refer to it, is essentially a thorough cleaning of your teeth and gums. It's the kind of cleaning your toothbrush and floss just can’t do.

Your hygienist will remove tartar (plaque that has hardened over time) and plaque (that sticky layer of microorganisms) during a cleaning.  In order to remove surface stains and give your teeth a smooth, renewed sensation, they also polish them.

The appointment usually lasts about an hour. You’ll kick back in the chair while the hygienist does all the work—scraping away buildup, checking your gums, and leaving your smile in better shape than when you walked in. 

Dental tools let hygienists reach places you can’t see, and they’re trained to clean without harming your teeth or gums. It’s a deeper level of care—and it really makes a difference.

Most dentists recommend cleanings every six months. But if it’s been a while, or if you notice any of the signs below, it’s definitely time to book:

If you’ve ever wondered what actually goes on during a professional teeth cleaning, here’s a simple breakdown of what to expect when you visit a dental office in Santa Monica.

Step 1: Quick Exam

Before the cleaning starts, your dental hygienist will take a look inside your mouth. They're checking for signs of cavities, gum inflammation, or anything else that might need attention. If they spot something that could affect the cleaning, they’ll let the dentist know.

Step 2: Plaque and Tartar Removal

This is the part people think of when they hear “teeth cleaning.” The hygienist uses a tool called a scaler to gently remove plaque and tartar from your teeth—especially around the gumline and between teeth. You might hear a little scraping, but it’s totally normal and shouldn’t hurt. If there’s more buildup than usual, this step might take a bit longer.

Step 3: Polishing

It's time to polish your teeth after cleaning them. Your hygienist will use a high-powered brush and a gritty toothpaste to smooth your teeth and lift surface stains. The polish comes in flavors like mint or cherry—you can usually pick your favorite. This part leaves your teeth feeling super clean and smooth.

Step 4: Flossing

Even if you floss every day, professional flossing goes a little deeper. Your hygienist will get into the tight spots and clean out anything that might have been missed during scaling or polishing. They’ll also check your flossing technique and may give you tips if they notice certain areas need more attention.

Step 5: Final Check & Tips

At the end, your hygienist will go over how everything went. They’ll point out any areas you should focus on at home and may recommend tools like electric toothbrushes, water flossers, or specific toothpaste. If needed, they’ll help you schedule your next visit.

The whole appointment usually takes 45 minutes to an hour, and most people find it easy and comfortable. If you’re anxious or it’s been a while since your last visit, let your hygienist know—they’re there to help, not judge.