FAQ: Professional teeth cleaning

Professional teeth cleaning is a thorough, preventive cleaning performed by dental professionals. It removes soft and hard deposits that cannot be fully eliminated at home and supports long-term oral health.

Steps, frequency and costs at a glance: Professional teeth cleaning in Singen.

Professional teeth cleaning helps to:

• prevent gum inflammation and periodontal disease

• reduce the risk of tooth decay

• clean areas that are difficult to reach with daily brushing

• remove surface stains

• improve oral hygiene and overall mouth comfort

Please note: professional teeth cleaning does not replace necessary periodontal treatment if gum disease is present.

The exact procedure can vary, but typically includes:

1. Assessment of the teeth and gums

2. Removal of hard deposits (tartar/calculus)

3. Removal of soft deposits (plaque and biofilm)

4. Cleaning of interdental areas

5. Polishing of tooth surfaces

6. Fluoride treatment if advisable

7. Personalised oral hygiene recommendations

Most patients find the procedure comfortable.
Mild sensitivity may occur, especially if gums are irritated or teeth are sensitive. A local anaesthetic can be given for certain areas if necessary.

Depending on the extent of cleaning required, professional teeth cleaning usually takes 30–60 minutes.

If your teeth and gums are healthy, we recommend professional teeth cleaning once or twice a year. If your risk is higher, we advise shorter intervals, for example if you have:

• a history of periodontitis,

• crowded teeth,

• crowns, bridges or implants,

• a higher risk of tooth decay.

Coverage varies:

• Statutory health insurance often covers only basic tartar removal once a year – not a full professional cleaning.

• Private or supplementary dental insurance may reimburse professional teeth cleaning, depending on the policy.

On request, we will give you a cost estimate before treatment.

The standard, insurance-covered tartar removal includes:

• removal of hard deposits above the gumline only.

Professional teeth cleaning is more comprehensive, including:

• cleaning above and below the gumline

• polishing

• removal of surface stains

• hygiene instructions

• fluoride application

Professional teeth cleaning is not mandatory but is strongly recommended for maintaining oral health and preventing gum disease and decay. It complements daily home care.

• Brush your teeth as usual beforehand.

• Let us know in advance about any medications that affect bleeding.

• If you have acute pain or other problems, please tell us before your appointment.

• After the fluoride application, do not eat or drink for at least 30 minutes.

• For a few hours, avoid staining foods and drinks such as coffee, tea or red wine.

• Your teeth may be slightly sensitive; this usually passes quickly.

• Continue your oral hygiene the way we recommended.

Professional teeth cleaning removes surface stains (coffee, tea, tobacco), which can make teeth appear brighter.
For true whitening, a professional bleaching treatment would be required.

Yes. Regular cleanings are especially important for:

• implants (to reduce the risk of peri-implant inflammation)

• crowns, bridges, and other restorations

They help protect both the teeth and surrounding gum tissue.

Professional teeth cleaning is a very safe routine procedure. Rarely, temporary effects may include:

• mild gum bleeding,

• slight irritation,

• short-lasting tooth sensitivity.

If symptoms persist, please contact us.

The cost depends on your insurance status and the extent of treatment. Our practice applies the following standard fees:

• patients with statutory health insurance: €117 per session,

• privately insured patients with a dental examination: €140,

• privately insured patients without a dental examination: approx. €128.

How much your private or supplementary insurance reimburses depends on your policy.