Teeth Cleaning Treatments In Cape Town

The Importance of Regular Teeth Cleanings

Regular visits to the dentist are crucial for maintaining optimal oral hygiene, though they often don’t top the list of priorities for many. Dental cleanings, usually performed by an Oral Hygienist, play a pivotal role in removing plaque—a soft, sticky film teeming with bacteria—and tartar (or calculus, as it’s technically known) accumulations on the teeth.

These substances form over time due to saliva’s calcium content, which, while protective, also leads to calcium deposits. These can harden into tartar, providing a haven for bacteria near the gums if not removed. The cleaning process eliminates these deposits and polishes the teeth, creating smooth surfaces that hinder bacterial adhesion. Teeth cleaning enhances your ability to maintain oral cleanliness with regular home care and leaves your teeth feeling exceptionally soft and clean.

For most individuals, a bi-annual visit to the dentist for a cleaning is recommended. However, those with specific conditions such as gum disease, orthodontic braces, smokers, or certain medical conditions may require more frequent cleanings to mitigate the risk of cavities or other dental issues. Beyond plaque and tartar removal, dental cleanings serve as a preventive measure against gum disease and promote overall oral health.

THE REVIEWS ARE IN...

Nicolas Alejandro Cuesta B.

I am usually anxious about going to the dentist, but I still decided to get a dental cleaning, a check-up, and a bleaching treatment. At first, I didn’t fully understand why everything was necessary for the bleaching, even though the receptionist explained it to me.

Now that I’ve had the treatment, I have to say—it was the best experience I’ve ever had. Not only is the clinic stunning, but the professionalism and the way they treat you are outstanding. The dentist was with me for the entire three-hour session; he never left me alone. First, he explained everything he was going to do, step by step. He used equipment and techniques I had never seen before, not even in Switzerland or Germany.

The check-up was not just a quick look at my teeth—it was incredibly thorough. They took pictures, X-rays, and close-up scans. They explained everything in detail, going through each tooth one by one, showing me what was good and what needed attention. Their level of professionalism is truly remarkable.

The staff is super friendly and prepared for everything. The whole experience was incredible—highly professional, beautifully executed, and absolutely worth every penny. I would do it again without hesitation. Five stars aren’t enough to describe how amazing this place is. I would recommend it to everyone—just outstanding!

Bronwyn K.

My kids and I had a wonderful experience during a check-up and clean with Dr Kiera, Busi and Melany. Their professionalism, knowledge, warmth and friendliness put us completely at ease. I highly recommend this superb team.

Shanna C.

Dr Keira is amazing! She made me feel so comfortable. The practice is also amazing, newest technologies and beautifully clean.

Danielle S.

Dr. Clifford is amazing! I came from the states to do injection molded bonding. I also had my teeth cleaned and whitened. The whole team is friendly, the office is beautiful, and the result is better than I could have imagined. Thank you so much to Dr. Clifford and team 🙌🏼 Highly highly recommend

Stephanie F.

I could not recommend Optismile enough! The reception staff are always so friendly & helpful, the practice environment is so clean & beautiful with amazing views, and the dental experts are, in my opinion, absolutely world class! I switched to Optismile when I wasn't happy with what was supposed to be the end result of my Invisalign treatment with another provider... Dr Smeyatsky was phenomenal, and he immediately understood why I wasn't yet satisfied & made a plan for me. The final result was exactly what I had always envisioned! Upon his advice, I also had some composite bonding done on two of my teeth after my treatment, which elevated my smile even further, while still looking natural & not giving that "overly done" look. Optismile has given me so much confidence in my smile. I'm so happy I chose this practice & every year without fail when I visit home from the UK, I go back for oral hygiene & a dental check-up to maintain the smile I now have. Every visit continues to be a delight!

Marysia A.

Cozy and friendly environment with superb service. Melany, the hygienist was extremely personable and very gentle. Probably the best cleaning I have ever had.

Benefits of Deep Cleaning Teeth

Reduce cavities

Brightens your smile

Prevent bleeding gums

Remove stains and brightens teeth

Teeth Cleaning That Boosts Your Health.

Regular teeth cleaning is an essential part of a healthy mouth and smile. Our specially trained oral hygienists perform this routine procedure in our offices and will leave your teeth feeling stronger, cleaner and healthier!

What is the process of cleaning teeth?

The dental cleaning procedure starts with a comprehensive mouth examination by a dental hygienist, employing a small mirror to identify any pressing concerns before the cleaning commences. This precedes the meticulous removal of plaque and tartar from the teeth’s surface, especially near the gum line, utilising specialised, non-invasive dental tools to ensure the process is painless and effective.

Advanced dental technology instruments are often the first tools used, applying tickling vibrations to dislodge larger tartar pieces, accompanied by a cooling mist of water to flush away debris and maintain a comfortable temperature. These instruments are designed to be gentle on the teeth. The hygienist can adjust the instrument’s settings in response to patient feedback to ensure comfort throughout the procedure.

Following the ultrasonic cleaning, finer hand tools, such as scalers and curettes, are employed to remove smaller tartar deposits meticulously and polish the tooth surfaces, ensuring they are smooth and clean.

The final steps involve polishing the teeth with a low-speed handpiece equipped with a soft rubber cup that spins to achieve a smooth, shiny finish. A fluoride treatment may also be applied, utilising gel or foam to strengthen the teeth. It is suggested that you avoid eating, drinking, or rinsing for 30 minutes post-application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Take a look at our most common questions about Invisalign. If you have further queries, please contact us for help.

Does scaling and polishing damage your teeth?

Scaling teeth is a safe and routine procedure that does not damage the tooth surface. A dental professional must do it. Scaling teeth involves removing tartar, plaque, and other debris from the teeth. This can help to prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Scaling teeth is usually done with a unique tool called a scaler. The scaler gently removes plaque and tartar from the teeth without harming the enamel. Scaling teeth is an essential part of maintaining good oral health. If you are concerned about scaling teeth, talk to your Cape Town dentist about whether it is right for you.

Does scaling whiten teeth?

Scaling teeth is one way to achieve whiter teeth. Scaling involves using a scaler, which helps remove plaque and tartar from the teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can form on the teeth, and tartar is hardened plaque. Scaling can help remove these substances from the teeth, resulting in a whiter, brighter smile. A dentist or hygienist typically performs scaling, which may need multiple times to achieve the desired results. Scaling can be uncomfortable for some people, but it is generally not painful. It is also advisable to include a teeth whitening treatment for the brightest smile possible.

Does teeth cleaning help with gum disease and bad breath?

Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can lead to tooth loss if it’s not treated early. Gum disease occurs when plaque and tartar build up below the gum line and irritate the gums. Symptoms of gum disease include bleeding gums, receding gums, bad breath, and sensitivity. Regular teeth cleanings can help prevent gum disease by removing the plaque and tartar that cause irritation.

When do you need a teeth cleaning?

Your gums are red, swollen, or bleeding.
Gum disease is the leading cause of tooth loss in adults, so taking any early signs is essential. For example, it’s time to see a dentist if your gums are red, swollen, or bleeding easily. These could be signs of gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease. A professional cleaning can remove the plaque and tartar and help you get your gum health back on track.
You haven’t seen a dentist in over 6 months (or longer).
Even if you’re diligent about brushing and flossing at home, there are some areas that only a dentist or oral hygienist can reach. Plaque can build up in these areas and turn into tartar, leading to tooth decay and gum disease. Regularly visiting the dentist can help prevent these issues before they start.
You have diabetes.
If you have diabetes, you may be at an increased risk for gum disease. That’s because diabetes can cause changes in the level of sugar in your saliva, which bacteria feed on. This can lead to an increase in plaque and tartar formation. In addition, diabetes can make it more difficult for your body to fight infection, which means any oral health problems you have may progress more quickly than they would otherwise. For these reasons, people with diabetes need to see a dentist regularly for cleanings and check-ups.
Regular dental cleanings are an important part of preventive care. If it’s been more than 6 months since your last visit to the dentist, or if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it’s time to schedule an appointment. However, don’t wait until you’re in pain to see a dentist—the damage may have already been done by then.

Is teeth cleaning painful?

Contrary to common concerns, dental cleanings are generally pain-free, often described as causing a ticklish sensation rather than discomfort. Many enjoy the feeling of cleaning, appreciating the smooth sensation of their teeth afterwards. Should you experience any moments of dpain such as a brief zingy feeling, it’s typically fleeting and deemed manageable by most.

If you find the experience uncomfortable, it is important to communicate with your dentist or hygienist. They can offer various solutions to enhance your comfort during the cleaning. Discomfort can arise from several sources, such as exposed dentine (unpleasant but not harmful) or tender gums.

For those who’ve had uncomfortable cleanings, opting for a more gentle dental care provider like OptiSmile can significantly improve the experience. Additionally, topical numbing gels can provide relief if scaling is uncomfortable due to sensitive gums rather than the teeth, ensuring the cleaning process is as pleasant as possible.

What is an Oral Hygienist, and how does their role relate to teeth cleaning?

An Oral Hygienist is a crucial healthcare professional within the dental sector. They specialise in the prevention of oral and dental conditions. Their primary role centres around performing professional teeth cleanings, an essential process for removing plaque, stains, and tartar.

Oral hygienists play a pivotal role in the early detection of tooth decay and gum diseases through thorough teeth cleaning. Their work extends beyond cleaning; they also assess oral health, help identify diseases and provide invaluable education on good oral hygiene practices.

By prioritising preventative care, oral hygienists assist individuals in maintaining optimal oral health, cementing their indispensable role in the dental healthcare team.