Teeth Cleaning in South Barrington, IL

Types of Cleanings

Prophylaxis (Routine Cleaning)

For patients with healthy gums and no active periodontal disease. Removes plaque and tartar from above the gum line and lightly below it, with polishing to remove surface stains. This is what most patients receive at their twice-yearly exam and cleaning.

Scaling and Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)

For patients with gum disease (periodontitis). Removes plaque and tartar from below the gum line, smooths the root surfaces so bacteria cannot re-adhere easily, and allows the gums to reattach to the tooth. Often done in two visits (upper and lower halves of the mouth) with local anesthesia.

Periodontal Maintenance

Ongoing hygiene care for patients with a history of periodontal disease. Performed every 3-4 months rather than every 6 months because the risk of relapse is higher. More thorough than a routine prophylaxis.

Benefits of Professional Cleaning

• Remove plaque and tartar brushing cannot reach
• Prevent gum disease and the bone loss and tooth loss it causes
• Reduce bad breath caused by bacteria accumulation
• Remove coffee, tea, wine, and tobacco stains
• Freshen breath and improve mouth feel
• Detect small issues early when they are easy to fix
• Reinforce home care habits with personalized coaching

The Process Step by Step

Step 1: Periodontal Assessment. Pocket depths are measured around each tooth.

Step 2: Ultrasonic Scaling. A gentle ultrasonic tool breaks up tartar with vibration and water spray.

Step 3: Hand Instrumentation. Finer hand scalers and curettes remove tartar the ultrasonic missed.

Step 4: Polishing. A slightly abrasive paste on a rotating rubber cup polishes teeth smooth and removes surface staining.

Step 5: Flossing. Every contact between your teeth is cleaned.

Step 6: Fluoride Treatment. On request or for high-cavity-risk patients.

Step 7: Home Care Coaching. Personalized tips on brushing technique, flossing, or adjunctive tools (water flossers, interdental brushes).

Timeline

• Prophylaxis: 45-60 minutes
• Scaling and root planing (half mouth): 60-90 minutes per visit, typically two visits total
• Periodontal maintenance: 60 minutes every 3-4 months

Cost Factors

Routine prophylaxis is typically covered at 100% by most PPO dental insurance plans twice per year. Scaling and root planing is usually covered at 80% after deductible, though coverage varies by plan. Periodontal maintenance is usually covered at 80% and limited to 4 times per year.

For self-pay patients, routine cleanings are among the most affordable dental procedures. See our finance and insurance page.

Risks and Limitations

Short-term sensitivity. Some teeth may be sensitive to cold for a few days after a deep cleaning, as tartar that was insulating the root surface has been removed.

Minor bleeding. Inflamed gums may bleed during cleaning. This is expected and resolves as the gums heal.

Existing restorations. Very large old fillings or failing crowns can sometimes loosen during cleaning and need replacement.

Scaling and root planing is not permanent. Without proper home care and periodontal maintenance, gum disease can return.

Who Is a Good Candidate

Routine prophylaxis: Any patient with healthy gums and no active periodontal disease.

Scaling and root planing: Patients with gum disease evidenced by deep pocket depths (4mm+), bleeding on probing, and/or radiographic bone loss.

Who Is NOT a Good Candidate

Patients with severe medical conditions that contraindicate dental procedures may need medical clearance first. Patients with complex periodontal disease may need a referral to a periodontist. Patients with certain cardiac conditions may need antibiotic prophylaxis before cleaning.

Comparison: Prophylaxis vs. Deep Cleaning

Alternatives and Complements

• Cleanings and exams as the standard twice-yearly comprehensive visit
• Oral cancer screening at every comprehensive exam
• Occlusal guards if grinding is contributing to wear or recession
• At-home adjuncts: water flossers, interdental brushes, prescription rinses