Professional teeth cleaning at Eric Heim Dental goes well beyond what a toothbrush and floss can achieve at home. Using ultrasonic scalers and hand instruments, the team removes calculus (tartar) build-up from above and below the gumline — deposits that harden within 24–72 hours of forming and cannot be removed by brushing alone. Regular cleanings every six months have been shown to reduce the risk of periodontal disease, which is linked to systemic conditions including cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Dr. Heim also uses each cleaning appointment as an opportunity to screen for early signs of oral cancer, gum recession, and enamel erosion.
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For most adults, a professional cleaning every six months is the clinical standard recommended by the American Dental Association. However, patients with a history of periodontal disease, heavy tartar build-up, or certain systemic conditions like diabetes may benefit from cleanings every three to four months — Dr. Heim will advise based on your specific periodontal health.
A regular prophylaxis cleaning removes plaque and tartar from above and just below the gumline in patients with healthy gums. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) is a therapeutic procedure for patients with active periodontal disease — it cleans the root surfaces below the gumline and smooths them to discourage bacterial reattachment, typically performed under local anaesthetic.
Some patients experience mild sensitivity for 24–48 hours after a cleaning, particularly if significant tartar was removed from below the gumline or if gum recession is present. This is a normal response as the newly exposed enamel adjusts — Dr. Heim can recommend a desensitizing fluoride treatment at the end of your appointment if needed.