Hygiene Maintenance
Professional scale and polish treatment for fresher breath and healthier gums
What is Hygiene Maintenance?
Dental cleaning, also known as scale and polish, is a preventive treatment that removes plaque, tartar (calculus), and surface stains from your teeth. This professional cleaning reaches areas that regular brushing and flossing cannot, helping to maintain optimal oral health.
The treatment involves two main steps: scaling to remove hardened tartar deposits, and polishing to smooth the tooth surfaces and remove surface stains. This leaves your teeth feeling clean, smooth, and looking brighter.
Types of Hygiene Maintenance
Routine Scale and Polish
A standard cleaning for patients with generally healthy gums and minimal tartar buildup.
- • Removes plaque and light tartar
- • Polishes tooth surfaces
- • Suitable for regular maintenance
- • Usually completed in 30-45 minutes
Deep Cleaning (Root Planing)
A more intensive cleaning for patients with gum disease or significant tartar buildup.
- • Removes tartar from below the gumline
- • Smooths root surfaces
- • May require local anaesthetic
- • Often completed over multiple visits
Air Polishing
A modern technique using a stream of air, water, and fine powder to remove stains and plaque.
- • Gentle and comfortable
- • Effective for stain removal
- • No scraping or vibration
- • Suitable for sensitive teeth
Why Regular Hygiene Maintenance is Important
Prevents Gum Disease
- • Removes plaque that causes gingivitis
- • Prevents progression to periodontitis
- • Reduces gum inflammation
- • Maintains healthy gum attachment
Prevents Tooth Decay
- • Removes bacteria that cause cavities
- • Smooths surfaces to prevent plaque buildup
- • Strengthens tooth enamel
- • Reduces risk of new cavities
Improves Oral Health
- • Fresher breath
- • Cleaner, smoother teeth
- • Reduced sensitivity
- • Better overall oral hygiene
Early Problem Detection
- • Identifies issues early
- • Prevents costly treatments
- • Monitors oral health changes
- • Provides preventive advice
What to Expect During Treatment
Step 1: Examination
Your dental hygienist will examine your teeth and gums to assess the level of cleaning needed and identify any areas of concern.
Step 2: Scaling
Using special instruments, the hygienist will remove plaque and tartar from your teeth, including areas below the gumline if necessary.
Step 3: Polishing
Your teeth will be polished with a special paste to remove surface stains and create smooth surfaces that resist plaque buildup.
Step 4: Fluoride Treatment (Optional)
A fluoride treatment may be applied to strengthen your tooth enamel and provide additional protection against decay.
How Often Should You Have Hygiene Maintenance?
The frequency of dental cleanings depends on your individual oral health needs:
Every 6 Months
- • Most adults with healthy gums
- • Good oral hygiene habits
- • No history of gum disease
- • Low risk of dental problems
Every 3-4 Months
- • History of gum disease
- • Diabetes or other health conditions
- • Smokers
- • Pregnant women
- • High risk of dental problems
How Much Does Hygiene Maintenance Cost?
Dental cleaning costs vary depending on the type of cleaning needed and your location. Here's a general guide to UK prices:
NHS Treatment
- • Basic scale and polish: £27.40
- • More basic treatment
- • May not include polish or airflow
- • May have waiting lists
Private Treatment
- • Routine cleaning: £60-£120
- • Deep cleaning: £120-£300
- • Air polishing: £80-£150
- • Fluoride treatment: £20-£50
- • Same-day appointments available
Note: Prices vary by location and practice. Many practices offer dental hygiene membership plans that include regular cleanings at a reduced cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I have a dental cleaning?
Most people should have a dental cleaning every 6 months. However, some people with gum disease or other oral health issues may need more frequent cleanings every 3-4 months. Your dentist will recommend the best schedule for your individual needs.
Is dental cleaning painful?
Dental cleaning is generally not painful, though you may experience some sensitivity or mild discomfort, especially if you have gum disease or haven't had a cleaning in a while. Your hygienist will work gently to ensure your comfort throughout the procedure.
What's the difference between scaling and polishing?
Scaling removes plaque and tartar from your teeth using special instruments, while polishing smooths the tooth surfaces and removes surface stains using a special paste. Both steps are important for optimal oral health.
Can I eat after a dental cleaning?
Yes, you can eat after a dental cleaning, though you may want to avoid very hot or cold foods if your teeth feel sensitive. It's also a good idea to avoid staining foods and drinks for a few hours after polishing to maintain the clean appearance.
Why do I need professional cleaning if I brush and floss?
Even with excellent home care, plaque can harden into tartar in areas that are difficult to reach. Professional cleaning removes this hardened tartar and reaches areas that brushing and flossing cannot, helping to prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
Find Dental Cleaning Near You
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Find a dentistWritten by: Dr Tristan Tinn, Founder and Clinical Director of HelpDental
Last updated: September 25, 2025