What Is Teeth Cleaning?
Teeth cleaning, also known as prophylaxis or scaling and polishing, is a preventive dental procedure to remove plaque, tartar and surface stains from your teeth. Over time, even with good brushing and flossing, areas along the gumline and between teeth can accumulate deposits that are too stubborn for home care removal. Dental scaling targets accumulated plaque that, if not removed, can form tartar, or a hardened deposit that cannot be removed by regular brushing and needs professional attention. A dentist or dental hygienist will use special instruments to scale and polish beneath the gums and on the tooth surface.
In Singapore, teeth cleaning may also include an oral exam, X-rays (if needed) and sometimes a fluoride treatment to strengthen enamel. On your first visit as a new patient, you can expect a complete examination and explanation of the cleaning process. For patients with gum issues, a procedure called scaling and root planing may be recommended to remove deposits under the gum tissue.
Why Regular Cleaning Matters for Gum Disease Prevention
Teeth cleaning goes beyond aesthetics. Plaque harbours bacteria that produce acids and inflammatory mediators. If it hardens into tartar, the bacteria become more aggressive, irritating the gums and potentially leading to gingivitis or periodontitis. Regular dental cleaning breaks this cycle, catching gum inflammation or early decay before it gets worse.
Professional cleaning also removes surface stains from coffee, tea or tobacco, to maintain a brighter smile. These visits also allow your dentist to monitor for cavities, signs of oral cancer, and changes in your teeth and jaw, and to address your individual dental needs with personalised care. In the long run, investing in professional teeth cleaning reduces the cost and complexity of restorative treatments.
Gum Disease and Its Effects
Gum disease or periodontal disease, a common dental condition in Singapore, affects the gums and the bone supporting your teeth. It develops when plaque and tartar accumulate along the gumline, leading to inflammation, infection and, if left untreated, more serious oral health problems. Early signs of gum disease are swollen or bleeding gums, persistent bad breath and discomfort when chewing. As the condition progresses, it can lead to tooth decay, receding gums and even tooth loss.
Scaling and polishing are essential dental treatments that remove plaque and tartar, preventing gum disease and maintaining healthy teeth. Early detection is key – routine dental appointments allow your dentist to spot gum issues before they get severe, making early treatment possible and reducing the need for more complex dental procedures.
If gum disease is detected, our dentists may recommend additional treatment, such as deep cleaning, antibiotic therapy, or, in advanced cases, specialist treatment such as root canal treatment or tooth extraction. Dental clinics in Singapore, including TEETH @ Tiong Bahru, offer a range of regular dental maintenance services to manage gum disease, from preventive care to advanced dental procedures. For eligible patients, CHAS subsidies can help offset the cost of dental treatments, making care more affordable.
What Happens During Scaling and Polishing?
A typical teeth cleaning session is gentle but thorough. First, your dentist or hygienist will review your medical and dental history and may do an oral exam or take X-rays, if required.
Next comes scaling, which uses handheld or ultrasonic instruments to remove plaque and tartar above and below the gumline. As the deposits break off, you may feel vibrations or a tickling sensation, but discomfort is minimal when the process is done correctly. Polishing is not painful. Most patients feel minimal to no pain, though those with sensitive gums or teeth may experience some slight discomfort.
Once all hard deposits are removed, the teeth are polished using a gritty prophylaxis toothpaste and a rubber cup or brush. This polishing process smooths the enamel surface, making it harder for new plaque to form. Polishing also helps whiten teeth by removing surface stains. It effectively removes surface stains from coffee, tea, and smoking, thereby improving the appearance and brightness of your teeth. After polishing, a rinse is given, and often a fluoride gel or varnish is applied to help strengthen enamel and reduce sensitivity.
How long is a teeth cleaning? If your gums are healthy, the process usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. In more advanced cases, when significant tartar buildup or gum disease is present, the dentist may schedule multiple visits or a deeper cleaning procedure.
How Often Should I Go for Teeth Cleaning?
Most dental professionals recommend a teeth cleaning every six months, but the ideal frequency can vary. Individuals with healthy gums and minimal buildup may require less frequent cleanings. Still, those with a history of gum disease, heavy plaque formation or certain medical conditions (like diabetes) might need cleaning every three to four months.
Your dentist will determine a customised schedule based on how quickly plaque builds up, your oral hygiene habits and your gum health. Regular cleaning visits ensure minor issues are caught early, before invasive treatments become necessary.
Teeth Cleaning Cost in Singapore
One of the most common questions is “How much does teeth cleaning cost?” The price of teeth cleaning in Singapore varies by clinic type, location, and whether additional services (such as fluoride or deep cleaning) are needed.
At TEETH @ Tiong Bahru, the cost of a standard teeth cleaning and polishing session in Singapore typically ranges from $98.10 to $174.40 (inclusive of GST). For cases requiring deeper cleaning or periodontal treatment, the teeth cleaning price may be higher.
Deep Cleaning vs Regular Cleaning
When plaque and tartar extend below the gumline, a deep cleaning is necessary. This procedure is more extensive, often done in quadrants (one section of the mouth at a time) and may require local anaesthesia. In Singapore, deep cleaning costs much more than regular cleaning. At TEETH @ Tiong Bahru, the price of a deep cleaning for a full mouth is $1,199.00.
Deep cleaning aims to stop gum disease progression by removing bacteria and infected tissue under the gums. Afterwards, patients typically shift to maintenance cleanings every three to four months to prevent recurrence. Importantly, regular dental appointments can help you avoid the need for a deep cleaning in the long run.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
Before your cleaning visit, brush and floss thoroughly to reduce the hardest deposits. Bring your medical history and a list of any medications you take. During the procedure, you may experience mild sensitivity or gum bleeding, all typical signs of plaque removal.
Afterwards, your teeth may feel smoother, and your gums may feel more comfortable. Mild sensitivity or irritation can last a day or two, but should subside soon. Avoid very hot, very cold, or acidic foods, such as citrus fruits, until sensitivity eases. Follow up with your home oral care routine and attend your next cleaning appointment as scheduled.
Is Teeth Cleaning Worth the Investment?
While it may feel like an optional expense, avoiding regular teeth cleaning creates new and costly risks. Without professional removal of plaque and tartar, gum disease can advance silently. By the time you notice pain or loosening teeth, restorative treatment such as fillings, root canals, or even extractions may be necessary.
At TEETH @ Tiong Bahru, we offer professional and thorough cleaning services to suit your needs, whether you’re due for a standard cleaning or require more extensive care. Don’t wait until problems arise. Book a dental check-up with us today and let us help you keep your smile healthy for years to come.
