Glossary
Dental Cleaning Glossary
Key terms to understand what happens during a professional dental cleaning — from plaque and tartar to scaling and prophylaxis.
A professional dental cleaning involves several steps and a fair amount of clinical vocabulary. This glossary explains the terms your hygienist may use so you know exactly what’s happening at each stage of your visit.
- Plaque
- A soft, sticky film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. If not removed by brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar.
- Tartar (Calculus)
- Hardened plaque that has mineralized onto the tooth surface. It can only be removed by a dental professional using special instruments.
- Scaling
- The process of removing plaque and tartar from the tooth surface and just below the gumline using hand or ultrasonic instruments.
- Prophylaxis
- The clinical term for a routine professional cleaning that prevents disease — typically recommended every six months.
- Gingivitis
- Early-stage gum inflammation caused by plaque buildup. It's reversible with professional cleaning and good home care.
- Root Planing
- A deeper cleaning that smooths the tooth roots to help gums reattach, used when gum disease has progressed beyond gingivitis.
- Polishing
- The final step of a cleaning that smooths the tooth surface and removes surface stains, leaving teeth feeling smooth and clean.
- Fluoride Treatment
- A concentrated fluoride application that strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities, often offered at the end of a cleaning.
Related Treatment
Teeth Cleaning (Prophy)
Gentle professional cleanings that remove plaque and tartar to keep your gums and teeth healthy.
Learn about teeth cleaning (prophy) →