Dental Cleaning&Oral Hygiene

Scarborough

How often should I get my teeth professionally cleaned?

For most people, every six months is the right interval — it keeps tartar from hardening and lets us catch early gum disease or cavities. If you have gum disease, heavy tartar buildup, or certain medical conditions, your dentist may recommend cleanings every three to four months instead. Your recall schedule should be based on your mouth, not a one-size-fits-all rule, and we will set it with you at your visit.

Does a dental cleaning hurt?

A routine cleaning is usually comfortable — most patients describe it as a mild tickling or pressure sensation. If your gums are inflamed or you have a lot of tartar, you may feel some sensitivity, and we can adjust our technique or use a topical numbing gel. Please tell your hygienist if you feel anything sharp; a cleaning should never be something you dread.

What is the difference between a regular cleaning and a deep cleaning?

A regular cleaning removes plaque and tartar from above the gumline and is preventive care for healthy gums. A deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) goes below the gumline to remove bacteria from the tooth roots and is a treatment for gum disease, usually done with freezing and sometimes over more than one visit. Not everyone needs a deep cleaning — your dentist will only recommend it if measurements show bone or attachment loss.

Will a cleaning whiten my teeth?

A cleaning removes surface stains from coffee, tea, and tobacco, so your teeth will look brighter and fresher afterward. However, it does not change the intrinsic shade of your teeth the way professional whitening does. If you like the brightness after your cleaning but want to go further, ask us about professional teeth whitening at AF Dental.

I have very sensitive teeth — can I still get a cleaning?

Absolutely — sensitive teeth are common, and avoiding cleanings only makes things worse as tartar builds up. Let your hygienist know in advance so we can use a gentler touch, desensitizing products, and take breaks if needed. Persistent sensitivity is also worth investigating, since it can signal enamel wear, gum recession, or a cracked tooth.

Does the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) cover dental cleanings?

Preventive cleanings are covered for eligible CDCP patients, but eligibility is always assessed first — coverage is never automatic — and the plan pays per the CDCP fee guide, which may differ from the full fee. AF Dental direct-bills the CDCP for eligible treatments in Scarborough, and we will confirm exactly what is covered before your appointment.

Comprehensive dental solutions in Scarborough: From preventative cleanings and exams to complex restorative surgery and dental implants. Trust AF Dental for specialized, comfortable family dentistry.