Teeth Cleaning, Scale & Polish

The terms are often used interchangeably. A professional teeth cleaning — also called a scale and polish — involves two steps: scaling, where the hygienist removes hardened plaque (calculus or tartar) and staining from above and below the gumline using specialized instruments; and polishing, which smooths the tooth surfaces to make it harder for new deposits to settle. It is more thorough than brushing and flossing at home.

Guided Biofilm Therapy (GBT) is an advanced, evidence-based approach to professional teeth cleaning that uses AIRFLOW technology — a controlled stream of air, warm water, and fine powder — to gently remove biofilm (the soft bacterial layer that precedes tartar) before any scaling is needed. It is particularly comfortable for patients with sensitivity, dental restorations, implants, or orthodontic appliances. Drs. Nicolas & Asp Centers offers GBT at all four Dubai locations.

A scale and polish is a routine preventive treatment that removes plaque, tartar, and surface stains from above and just below the gumline.

A deep cleaning — clinically known as scaling and root planing — goes further, targeting bacterial deposits that have accumulated below the gumline on the root surfaces of the teeth.

It is a specialist procedure carried out by a periodontist, recommended when gum disease has progressed beyond what routine cleaning can address. Your dentist will refer you to our periodontics team if this level of treatment is needed.

During your appointment, your hygienist checks the condition of your teeth and gums and can flag early warning signs — such as inflammation, bleeding, or recession — that may warrant further assessment. If anything is noted, you will be referred to one of our dentists or our periodontics team for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.

Professional cleaning removes surface stains caused by tea, coffee, red wine, and smoking, which can noticeably brighten your smile. However, a scale and polish is a hygiene treatment — not a whitening treatment. If you are looking to change the natural shade of your teeth, our team can discuss professional teeth whitening options with you at the same visit.

Yes. Professional hygiene appointments are beneficial for children as well as adults. Our hygienists are experienced in working with younger patients and take time to explain the process in a way that is comfortable and reassuring. Children who wear braces particularly benefit from regular hygiene visits, as orthodontic appliances make cleaning at home more challenging.

A dental hygienist specializes in preventive oral care — professional cleaning, gum health assessment, and oral hygiene education. A dentist diagnoses and treats dental conditions such as cavities, broken teeth, and infections. At Drs. Nicolas & Asp Centers, our hygienists work closely alongside our dentists so that anything flagged during your hygiene appointment is followed up by the right specialist.

No special preparation is needed. Brush and floss as normal before your visit. If you have had any changes to your medical history, medications, or health conditions since your last appointment, let your hygienist know at the start of the session — this helps them tailor the treatment to your current needs.