What is the direct answer?
Dentists clean teeth with an examination, hand or ultrasonic instruments to remove calculus, and polishing tools to remove selected surface stain.
What does this question mean?
Ultrasonic scalers use vibration and water irrigation to disrupt calculus, while hand scalers refine areas the tip cannot reach. A polishing cup or air-polishing powder may address surface stain.
What can you do next?
The clinician first checks teeth and gums, removes deposits above or below the gumline as indicated, rinses the area, and reviews brushing and interdental cleaning.
When should you seek dental care?
Arrange an examination for bleeding, swelling, bad breath, tooth sensitivity, loose teeth, or deposits that return quickly, since cleaning may need periodontal assessment.
What should you ask the dentist?
Ask which deposits are present, whether cleaning will be above or below the gumline, and which home-care method reaches your difficult areas.
Frequently asked questions
Can home care replace an examination?
Home care controls plaque, but it cannot remove calculus or explain persistent symptoms.
Can one symptom have several causes?
Yes. Teeth, gums, medicines, and medical conditions can produce similar signs.

